At the end of this season, Phoenix Suns point guard Chris Paul has the option of exercising a massive $44.2 million player option for the 2021-22 season.
Given that he is 36 years old and this is likely the last big payday of his career, many assumed that it was a foregone conclusion that Paul would take the cash and run. As it turns out, apparently that’s not a done deal.
Paul addressed the situation in a conversation with Sam Amick of The Athletic. “I mean first and foremost, I love it here,” Paul said. “I don’t know how many years I’ve got left. I don’t really think about that either. I feel too good.”
As far as the offseason goes, however, Paul acknowledges that anything can happen:
“Seriously, this summer, I have no clue.
“As much as I’m involved in the union and stuff like that, I don’t know what anybody’s teams are, (what their) caps are. I don’t know none of that stuff. I just play. And like I say, I’m lucky to have my brother, my brother who helps. I focus on playing.”
Paul had the opportunity to join one other contender this past offseason, but he wanted to go to the Suns instead. That alone should give fans some confidence.
But will he ultimately stick around long-term? Time will tell.
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