NBA Trade News: Chris Paul Can Make Suns Young Stars Better; Thunder Get More Cap Room

KEY POINTS

Thunder gain more flexibility after Chris Paul trade
The Suns are expected to use Paul's experience to hone up skills of young players
The Suns-Thunder trade is seen more of a long-term investment for both clubs

The Oklahoma City Thunder finally got a take for Chris Paul and his massive contract in the Phoenix Suns.

Though adding Paul to the Suns raises some questions, it does give the franchise much-needed experience. Among the players expected to benefit are Devin Booker and Deandre Ayton.

Both teams completed the trade which also involved several other players. For the Thunder, the trade also involved Abdel Nader.

The Suns, on the other hand, sent Kelly Oubre Jr., Ricky Rubio, Ty Jerome, Jalen Lecque, and a 2022 first-round pick, ESPN reported.

“Chris' leadership and competitive approach to the game will have an immeasurable impact on our team. Abdel possesses all the traits on and off the court that will complement our culture,” Suns owner Robert Sarver said in a statement.

It will be interesting if Paul can weave the same magic he did with the Thunder last season. Though most felt he was on the last leg of his NBA career, the 10-time All-Star proved that he could still play at a competitive level.

Most of all, he found a way to stay healthy and helped OKC reach the NBA playoffs.

For OKC, the deal gave them a lot of flexibility financially. They got some role players who could shine this coming NBA season.

Oubre is someone who most sees has a promising career although he is coming off a torn meniscus injury in his right knee. Rubio should pick up from where Paul left off though he too has been struggling to stay healthy.

Both Rubio and Oubre could be long-term fits for the Thunder, assuming they play well this 2020-21 season. Aside from that, their durability will be under the radar.

Beyond the players, the Suns now find themselves with a lot of options moving forward in the form of picks. Considering they are a franchise in rebuild mode, they own good picks from 2020 to 2024 and then in 2026.

Before the Paul trade, OKC also sent Dennis Schroder to the Los Angeles Lakers for Danny Green and whoever the Lakers pick at No. 28.

But Green may not be staying there for long with reports that he will be dealt out soon.