The season has barely ended, the Warriors are already looking towards the next one, and there is no shortage of questions. There is of course the case of Klay Thompson, who was not extended during the season, but also that of Chris Paul. At almost 39 years old, the former Suns leader has a final year of contract worth $30 million, but it is not guaranteed. Management can therefore separate from it, but to listen to Mike Dunleavy Jrthe GM of the Warriors, the idea is rather to continue with him.
“Overall, I'm really happy with Chris. What he gave us in the locker room, on the pitch, off the pitch”explains the Warriors GM. “Certainly, I imagine he would probably have liked to have a bigger role and be able to help the team a little more. But given his production and what he does with always winning in mind, we certainly have an interest in keeping him. »
On the other hand, given his salary of 30 million dollars, no doubt it will involve activating the clause for him to become a free agent, and then signing him at a lower salary, perhaps over two years.
“Like a puzzle, we have to look at all the pieces, understand them and look. There is certainly a possible path to achieve this. We're not really at the specific point yet to know what we can or can't do,” develops Mike Dunleavy Jr.
Will Chris Paul accept another sacrifice?
Having become a substitute for the first time in his career, Chris Paul saw his role and his production significantly decrease. But Steve Kerr highlights his influence on the group and his exemplary mentality.
“He’s one of the most professional guys I’ve ever been around. He sacrificed himself to get off the bench, » recalls the Warriors coach. “He’s a Hall of Famer, and he accepted it, without complaint, quite the contrary in fact. He encouraged the rest of the guys on the bench, he encouraged the coaches, he collaborated… He was incredible. I feel lucky to have coached him and hope to be able to coach him again next year. We'll see how this all plays out. »
Parameters other than playing time and money will play a role in the discussions. Chris Paul's family lives in Los Angeles, and San Francisco remains nearby. The point guard is also looking for a championship ring, and perhaps he will be tempted to join a team he considers better armed than the Warriors. Response at the beginning of July…
