NBA Rumors: Chris Paul Still In OKC's Trading Block According To Several League Sources

Despite assurances from the OKC management and CP3 that they are willing to work things out, it seems that Paul could still be traded midway in the 2018-2019 NBA Season.

The NBA community was ready to believe that Chris would be doing his point guard duties as a member of the Thunder. However, recent reports have indicated that OKC is willing to explore trade packages involving Paul and Danillo Gallinari.

Kevin O'Connor of The Ringer said that several league sources have revealed that OKC is still looking to add pieces for a complete rebuild. The organization has lost two All-Stars in the off-season and tanking might benefit them in the long run.

Russel Westbrook and Paul George's departure put a dent on OKC's offensive capabilities. While they still have talent, it's not enough in the stacked Western Conference Division, especially with an aging Chris Paul.

The 34-year-old All-Star might also impend the growth of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Dennis Schröder. Adding Danillo Gallinari in the trade package could land them rebuilding pieces that would be the foundation of OKC's post-Westbrook era.

But finding a new home for the 34-year-old guard and his massive $124 million three year salary would be difficult. But playoff-contending teams would likely gamble on the services of the 14-year vet.

According to Basketballreference.com, despite having career lows last year, Paul still managed to contribute 15.6 points, 4.6 rebounds, 8.2 assists and two steals in 58 regular-season games. If Gallo is healthy, teams might reconsider having them both for the right pieces.

The 31-year-old Italian forward posted 19.8 points, 6.1 rebounds and 2.8 assists as a member of the Clippers during the 2018-2019 NBA season. Nonetheless, if the rumors aren't real, OKC could still become serious underdogs, given that both players are healthy.

But it's expected that the Thunder would want to pursue younger prospects in the long run. Ideally, the earlier the rebuild, the better, it looks like Chris Paul is still in limbo after all.