NBA Rumors: Rockets Exploring Options For Chris Paul Next Season

The Houston Rockets are trying to find answers after falling apart in the 2018-19 NBA Western Conference Semifinals against the Golden State Warriors.

While it cannot be denied that the Dubs were a team that would be hard to take down, it was the reported verbal altercation between Chris Paul and James Harden after that loss that has taken the spotlight.

While much of that was covered in a previous article, pundits are now wondering if one of the two would eventually leave Houston. And from the looks of it, Paul looms as the one who would likely be moving out. Aside from that fact that CP3 is no longer as young as before, his performance in the 2018-19 NBA season leaves a lot to be desired. Some believe that he has slowed down compared to previous years and such could be another point for consideration in the event that the Rockets are forced to choose between him and Harden.

Even adding more fuel to the fire, NBC Sports also revealed how Paul had reportedly been talking with head coach Mike D’Antoni about some changes in the offense. This involved pushing for more movement, something that could be an indirect swipe to force Harden who has been known to want the ball in his hands most of the time.

With turmoil in Houston, the question now is if Daryl Morey would consider trading Paul this NBA offseason. However, that would be easier said than done. Paul is owed $124 million in the next three years – meaning teams may not be that inclined to take him in especially after his performance last season. Unless Harden and Paul patch things up (somehow), this is a problem that the Rockets need to address.

Gauging his performance last season, Paul could rediscover his old form but with another team. Forbes noted how CP3 can still muster enough because of his court brilliance, a playmaker who can still make his teammates look good.

But it all starts with joining a team (if he does get traded) that has players who can do the pick-and-roll to perfection with Paul. There are many teams looking for a veteran guard right now although it all boils down to which team would be willing to assume the balance of his current NBA contract.

For the Rockets, trading Paul would be crucial as well. Although there are plenty of free agents to consider in the free agent market this NBA offseason, it also means that Houston will have to reboot a bit and get Paul’s potential replacement on the right page.