The Thunder acquired Chris Paul in a trade that reunited Russell Westbrook with former OKC teammate and current Rockets superstar James Harden. After the move, many analysts assumed that OKC would move Paul to his desired location for assets that would speed up the team’s rebuild. This sparked rumors that Paul would be dealt to the Heat, where he would play alongside Jimmy Butler. But despite this being Paul’s preferred destination, Miami was probably unwilling to give more of their assets to OKC.
“When you talk about him potentially going to the Miami Heat, which is his preference, one thing I’ve been told in the talks: the fact that the Thunder hold the two of the Heat’s first-round picks in the future—unprotected 2021, protected 2023—makes this a difficult conversation because the Heat want those picks back,” ESPN’s Brian Windhorst explained.
As a result, OKC has been left scrambling to find a team willing to take the over $80 million the 34-year-old is owed on his current contract. It’s no wonder the Thunder’s search hasn’t been fruitful, leaving insiders to believe CP3 will have to start the year with the Thunder. In fact, Woj writes that “both sides believe there are benefits” to Paul playing out the year with the Thunder, with the possibility of exploring trade options after the end of net season. Because of the Thunder’s deep talent pool, Paul has reportedly warmed the idea of returning to OKC.
