The Phoenix Suns have pulled off an incredible season with a real chance to make a run at the NBA Finals. Chris Paul’s impact has been a pivotal element of their success and with him facing a $44.2 million player option in the offseason, the outlook for a potential contract extension has come up.
According to Sports Illustrated’s Chris Mannix, league executives have told him that a contract extension for Chris Paul could be in the ballpark of three-years, $60 million.
“The Chris Paul player option — $44.2 million — will be interesting to watch. Execs I’ve talked to peg CP in the three-year, $60 million-ish range on a new deal. Does Paul go for the most guaranteed money? Or does he pick up the option and bet he has another All-Star season?”
READ MORE: NBA Rumors: Chris Paul expected to decline player-option for multi-year deal
There have already been reports circulating about how Chris Paul will decline his player option in favor of coming to an agreement on a long-term deal.
Bleacher Report’s Eric Pincus shared insight into this possibility recently:
“Paul has a $44.4 million player option, which according to several sources, he intends to decline with hopes of inking a new multiyear deal (perhaps in the $100 million range over three seasons). It’s unclear if his recent shoulder injury changes his plans. Gordon Hayward, who has battled more severe injuries than Paul, made a similar decision this past offseason, opting out of his final year with the Boston Celtics to sign a four-year, $120 million contract with the Charlotte Hornets.”
READ MORE: NBA Rumors: Chris Paul unlikely to leave Phoenix Suns in NBA free agency
Given the success that Paul has achieved with the Suns this season, it appears highly unlikely that he would choose to depart in NBA free agency. Winning is a priority but so is receiving a strong payday on what will be his final large contract. Phoenix will not hesitate to oblige.
In 70 regular season performance this season, Chris Paul provided the Phoenix Suns with averages of 16.4 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 8.9 assists. He did so while playing some of the most efficient basketball of anyone in the NBA and while running the half-court offense at an elite level.
