NBA Notes: Chris Paul, Suns, Hawks, Marcus Smart, Nets, Cam Thomas

Chris Paul is back with the Clippers, but that wasn’t the only NBA reunion on his radar.

Before agreeing to a one-year deal with Los Angeles last week, the veteran point guard explored the possibility of rejoining the Suns, per The Stein Line’s Marc Stein and Jake Fischer.

Suns star Devin Booker was reportedly intrigued by a potential reunion, remembering how well the two meshed during Phoenix’s run to the 2021 NBA Finals.

At one point, there appeared to be an opening at point guard in Phoenix, particularly after Tyus Jones opted to sign with Orlando. But the Suns’ front office decided to pivot in another direction.

According to Stein and Fischer, Phoenix was far more focused on signing defensive-minded guard Marcus Smart, who ultimately landed with the Lakers following a buyout from the Wizards. The Suns also reportedly had internal concerns about how Paul’s return might affect first-year head coach Jordan Ott.

Instead of bringing Paul back, the Suns claimed Jordan Goodwin off waivers and signed Jared Butler to a non-guaranteed deal.

In addition to Phoenix and the Clippers, Paul also drew interest from Charlotte, Milwaukee and Dallas. The Mavericks ultimately prioritized D’Angelo Russell, believing he would be more effective in a complementary role next to Kyrie Irving (when healthy) and a better fit alongside Anthony Davis. Dallas signed Russell to a two-year deal.

Hawks Considered Smart Before Pivoting

Marcus Smart was on more than just Phoenix’s radar.

According to The Stein Line, the Atlanta Hawks considered using their $25 million traded player exception to absorb Smart’s contract before his buyout with Washington. But instead, the Hawks shifted course, acquiring Kristaps Porziņģis and completing a sign-and-trade for Nickeil Alexander-Walker.

Milwaukee was also in the mix for Smart. The Bucks explored trade possibilities for Smart and Golden State forward Andrew Wiggins, using Pat Connaughton’s expiring $9.4 million contract as a potential salary-matching piece. They ultimately dealt Connaughton to Charlotte for two future second-round picks.

Nets Still Playing Hardball with Thomas

Cam Thomas remains a restricted free agent, and the Brooklyn Nets seem in no hurry to move the needle in negotiations.

Per Fischer, the Nets have not yet offered more than a two-year deal with an average annual value in the range of the $14.1 million non-taxpayer mid-level exception. Those offers have also included a team option in year two, limiting Thomas’ long-term security.

Thomas has little leverage in restricted free agency unless a rival team steps in with a more aggressive offer sheet. For now, Brooklyn appears content to wait.

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