Thunder struggling to find a trade suitor for Chris Paul

In wake of the blockbuster trade that sent star point guard Russell Westbrook to the Houston Rockets, the focus has shifted over to former All-Star point guard Chris Paul’s future with the Oklahoma City Thunder.

In the days that have followed, the Thunder have taken a strong approach toward finding a suitable trade for Paul. However, it now appears that there is a strong likelihood that the 34-year-old may have to begin the 2019-20 season with Oklahoma City, according to Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN.

The Oklahoma City Thunder’s discussions to move nine-time All-Star guard Chris Paul to a new destination are parked, and an increasing expectation exists that he will start the season with the team, league sources tell ESPN.

It has been quite difficult to find a market for Paul given his massive contract at his age as he is about to enter the second year of his four-year, $159.7 million deal. He’s also set to make $38.5 million next season, which is quite a tough pill to swallow for any team, especially given that he has struggled with injuries over the last few seasons.

The Miami Heat have been circled as a possible landing spot, but they are hard-capped while the Thunder are reportedly asking for more in return than what they are willing to offer. All of this has seemingly made it quite a difficult task to find a deal.

Until things can be sorted out, it looks like Paul will be sitting put in Oklahoma City much longer than he desires.