Chris Paul is a 33-year-old point guard — typically, a player of that age at that position doesn’t have much value on the market. Paul, however, was a vital piece for the Rockets this season, and all signs are that he will play a big role in Houston’s quest to take down Golden State.
Nonetheless, Paul’s future is uncertain. He is a free agent and is expected to pursue a max contract. With Houston juggling Paul’s contract with those of Trevor Ariza and Clint Capela, reports indicate there is now “tension” between the veteran point guard and the West’s No. 1 seed.
“From what I’m told, there is tension now between Houston and Chris Paul…”@Chris_Broussard breaks down NBA free agency pic.twitter.com/3wzpDUaNQJ
— UNDISPUTED (@undisputed) June 22, 2018
If there is “tension,” however, it sure wasn’t apparent at the NBA Awards Monday. ESPN’s Rachel Nichols posted a video of Paul with Rockets General Manager Daryl Morey and CEO Tad Brown, and they poked fun at the report.
“So these are the people you hate?” Nichols asked.
They laughed.
“I can’t stand them, man,” Paul joked. “Ain’t we beefing? I can’t stand y’all. Get away from me.”
“Ain’t we beefing?” 😂
Here’s @CP3, @DMorey & Rockets CEO Tad Brown on reports there’s “tension” between them over Chris’s free agency. pic.twitter.com/ir2lEdhRNc
— Rachel Nichols (@Rachel__Nichols) June 26, 2018
Though Houston is likely planning to hold onto Capela, it would be a surprise if the Rockets couldn’t work out a deal with Paul after such a successful first season together.
NBA Awards Recap
Paul’s teammate, James Harden, claimed MVP after twice finishing the runner-up for the award. Sixers swingman Ben Simmons, who especially emerged late in the season, claimed Rookie of the Year.
Dwane Casey beat out Quin Snyder and Brad Stevens for Coach of the Year and delivered a heartfelt speech. Additionally, Rudy Gobert claimed Defensive Player of the Year, Victor Oladipo won Most Improved Player, and Lou Williams won Sixth Man of the Year.
