Chris Paul Rumors: NBA Execs 'Keeping a Side Eye' on Suns Star as Trade Target

The Phoenix Suns haven't shown interest in trading veteran point guard Chris Paul ahead of the NBA's Feb. 9 deadline. However, that doesn't mean he's completely off the table.

NBA executives "are keeping a side eye" on Paul as a potential trade target with the franchise's new ownership set to take over in the near future, according to Matt Moore of Action Network.

With Mat Ishbia set to take over as governor, the Suns could be aggressive in their approach to acquiring new players ahead of the deadline. The Athletic and Stadium's Shams Charania reported Jan. 19 that Phoenix is willing to trade a first-round pick and potentially take on some salary "for good players and winning acquisitions."

That doesn't mean Paul will be moved, but given his recent injury history, it wouldn't be surprising to see the Suns at least consider it if they can acquire a better replacement, such as Toronto Raptors star Fred VanVleet, who has been linked in trade rumors of late.

Paul, 37, has appeared in just 30 games this season because of injury. He's also not having the best statistical season by his standards, averaging 14.3 points, 4.4 rebounds and 8.7 assists while shooting 45.0 percent from the floor and 40.5 percent from deep.

The Suns are currently ninth in the Western Conference with a 26-25 record. It's been a disappointing season for the franchise, which finished first in the conference last season with a 64-18 record.

Paul, who is under contract through 2025, is far from the team's only problem, though. So, moving him likely wouldn't vault the Suns into better standing in the Western Conference.

Devin Booker, Cameron Payne, Landry Shamet and Josh Okogie have all missed time because of injury. Additionally, Jae Crowder hasn't played for the team this season as he pursues a trade.

The Suns still have a little over one week to decide what they want to do ahead of the deadline. If they don't make some upgrades, it's unlikely they'll be able to compete with the top teams in the West, such as the Denver Nuggets and Memphis Grizzlies.