Suns reportedly hopeful Chris Paul will return early in Western Conference Finals

The Phoenix Suns are encouraged by Chris Paul's progress and are reportedly hopeful he will clear the NBA's health and safety protocols early in the Western Conference Finals, according to Chris Haynes of Yahoo Sports.

Paul tested positive for COVID-19 last week but is asymptomatic, Haynes adds. The 36-year-old reportedly received the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine in February, and his isolation period could be shorter than 10-14 days because he is vaccinated.

Paul is averaging 15.7 points, 8.7 assists and 4.1 rebounds per game this postseason, and the Suns will undoubtedly need him down the stretch. However, Phoenix defeated the Los Angeles Clippers 120-114 in Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals without him, so there's optimism they can reach the NBA Finals even if he doesn't return. 

Game 2 between the Suns and Clippers is scheduled for Tuesday.