NBA: Change In Attitude, Buyout Could Lead Chris Paul To Lakers?

Chris Paul's attitude and a potential buyout could possibly ship the future hall of famer to the Lakers.

Since his departure from Houston Rockets, Paul has been the subject in numerous trade rumors swirling around the NBA this offseason. With the Oklahoma City Thunder reportedly consistent in finding a landing spot Paul, it is hard not to imagine that the veteran point guard could somehow find his way to end with the newly rebuilt Los Angeles Lakers.

However, there are some factors to consider before a potential deal between LA and Paul could come to reality.

Paul is currently worth $124 million. And sources suggested that if he decides to be open for negotiations that would take a few million dollars less from his salary, the Lakers could be one of the teams to buy him out. But then again, it will all depend on how Paul likes to play for a contending team, and more importantly, how much is he willing to cut from his huge contract, Sporting News reported.

The other factor is Paul's attitude. The former Rockets star has been regarded as one of the toughest players in NBA today, and being tough includes being hot-headed as well. In the past, Lakers veteran Rajon Rondo and former Laker sensation Brandon Ingram have had an ugly fight with Paul. Although that fight seems to already be water under the bridge, it is impossible for the media and the players concerned not to bring the topic up, especially if the Lakers would really consider taking a shot at landing Paul.

Aside from having a reputation of being short-tempered, Paul has apparently been criticized as a controlling leader. His former teammate, Kenyon Martin, spoke with Sports Illustrated just a few days ago and what he had to say is probably not what the All Star point guard needs to hear at the moment.

According to Martin, Paul's attitude has been an ongoing issue. "People have heard these things before about Chris Paul, not only from me but other teammates. Where there's smoke, I'm a firm believer there's fire," Martin said.

Martin then continued by stating that Paul's strong personality affects his teammates in a negative way. "He always wants to be the biggest voice in the room when it comes to basketball and I think that rubs guys the wrong way," Martin added.

After all, Paul is still thought to have no winning ways with the Thunder and is expected to sign with a different team this offseason.