NBA Rumors: New York Knicks May Explore Trade Options To Acquire Chris Paul

The New York Knicks are expected to be aggressive in pursuing some top-caliber players in its bid to finally contend starting next season. One player on its radar is reportedly Chris Paul, who has been linked to the team since the appointment of Leon Rose as the franchise’s president.

Anonymous sources close to the organization have been serving hints about the 34-year-old potentially suiting up for the Knicks since March.

ESPN’s Frank Isola reported, “The Knicks, according to NBA sources, have been gathering intel on All-Star Chris Paul and could make a run at him this summer. Paul, 34, carries a huge contract but he’s had a resurgent season in OKC & is proven leader.”

Marc Berman of the New York Post gathered the same fuzz and published a report which read: "Last spring, then-agent Leon Rose was intrigued by the notion of the Rockets offering up his client Chris Paul to the Knicks, according to a league source."

Days after the reports, the NBA suspended its season due to the Coronavirus, prompting the transfer rumors to dwindle down.

But on Thursday, the CP3 to New York talks have resurfaced anew.

Ian Begley of SNY backed up the previous reports as he mentioned Paul’s close relationship with Rose, his former agent, will be the fuel to get the discussions going.

"I think there are still people with the Knicks who feel that bringing Chris Paul onto this roster at this time would jumpstart the franchise's effort to build a winning culture, to give these young players winning habits," Begley said.

Paul was having a breakout year for the Oklahoma City Thunder, which traded for him last summer in exchange for Russell Westbrook. In 63 games this season, the 15-year veteran guard led OKC to an unexpected 40-24 record – good for fifth in the West- as he averaged 17.7 points, 4.9 rebounds, 6.8 assists, and 1.6 steals while playing close to 32 minutes per night, earning him his 10^th All-Star selection.

The Knicks, meanwhile have remained stuck in a dry spell as they tallied just 21 wins in 66 games, placing them at 12^th in the East.