Going going, back back, to Cali Cali?
Last summer, the Houston Rockets made a blockbuster trade to acquire Chris Paul. Shortly after, CP3 met with Rockets general manager, Daryl Morey, who originally planned to sign him to a max-deal this summer. Considering the team finished 2018 with their best record in franchise history and coming just one-game shy of the NBA Finals; many were expecting the team to look out for him.
Sadly, even after sacrificing $10 million last season to facilitate a deal to Houston and help the team avoid an insane luxury tax; they’re having seconds thoughts on their original verbal agreement.
Due to the team getting a new ownership and CP3’s injury in game 5 of the western conference finals; both sides officially have tension at the moment during early contract discussions.
Currently, Paul is looking for a 5-year max deal, which would extend until he’s 38 – but we’re not sure his body would make it past 3. New owner, Tilman Ferttita is looking to cut back on spending, which could mean the franchise becoming a lottery team in the coming years.
Both Clint Capela and Trevor Ariza are also set to become unrestricted free agents, with Ariza likely out the door heading to Golden State on a veteran deal. Capela is the player Houston wants to keep over both Paul and Ariza, as they believe the young talent has a bigger upside than the aging vets. Originally, CP3 was projected to make $205 million over five years with the Rockets.
However, Chris could likely be in early discussions with LeBron James to join him and possibly others in Los Angeles next weekend. CP3 also recently sold his house in The Woodlands section of North Houston, so that could be an indication that he’s looking to move back to California.
Let us know in the comments if you think CP3 should try and win with James Harden in Houston or take a chance with Magic Johnson and the Los Angeles Lakers.