Although it seems that a breakup between Chris Paul and Houston Rockets is imminent, the two sides might end up patching things up. Paul recently spoke with the media and said that he will stay in Houston for the next season and is “very happy” about it.
Several media reported last week that the relationship between Paul and the rest of the Rockets has been troubling and that the 34-year-old point guard asked for a trade. He, however, denies making such a request.
“I never asked for a trade,” – said Paul said. “I never demanded a trade.”
“I’ll be in Houston,” – he added. “I’m happy about that. I’m very happy about that. I’m good.”
According to sources close to the situation, Chris Paul has been discontent with the way his co-star James Harden has been playing. While Paul was pushing for more designed plays and sets in the postseason, Harden relied on iso-basketball. Rockets elimination in the Western Conference semi-finals ended up making an already tense relationship even tenser.
The issue for the Rockets is that they would face tons of difficulties even if they wanted to trade Paul. He still has $124 million over three years left on his contract, which combined with his advanced age and declining play makes him a tough asset to move on.
Paul finished the regular season with a career-low 15.6 points per game, while also adding 4.6 rebounds, 8.2 assists, and 2.0 steals per game.
