Chris Paul Trade Rumors: Thunder Give Star Permission to Discuss Trade to Suns

The Oklahoma City Thunder gave Chris Paul permission to speak with the Phoenix Suns ahead of a possible trade, according to ESPN's Brian Windhorst.

"I think Chris Paul is interested in being a Phoenix Sun, and that is not a minor statement," Windhorst said during an appearance on The Drive with Jody Oehler on Fox Sports 910 Phoenix (h/t Kurt Helin of Pro Basketball Talk).

Windhorst and colleague Tim Bontemps reported Tuesday the Suns had reached out about adding the 10-time All-Star: "Talks have been ongoing and have continued to gather traction, but there is no deal imminent, sources said."

The report also said the Thunder had previously allowed Paul George and Russell Westbrook to get involved in the process prior to their trades and that the same could be happening with Paul.

Phoenix missed the playoffs for the 10th straight season in 2019-20, but the team's 8-0 run during the NBA's seeding games raised hopes ahead of the upcoming year.

Spotrac estimates the Suns to have $20.6 million in salary cap space. They're in a good position to either land a marquee free agent or absorb a big contract in a trade. Paul is signed $41.4 million in 2020-21 and has a $44.2 million player option for 2021-22.

The 35-year-old doesn't have a no-trade clause in his contract, so his approval isn't necessary for Oklahoma City to finalize any deal.

From Phoenix's perspective, reaching out to Paul makes sense to gauge his level of interest in playing for the team.

The Suns look like they're headed in the right direction while building around Devin Booker and Deandre Ayton, and head coach Monty Williams has a reputation for connecting with his players. He coached Paul for what proved to be the latter's final season with the New Orleans Hornets.

Still, the future Hall of Fame point guard might have some reservations about the franchise based on its recent futility and general dysfunction behind the scenes.