The Phoenix Suns have waived guard Chris Paul, according to a report Wednesday. The Suns’ decision will make Paul a free agent during the upcoming offseason.
The release ends Paul’s time in Phoenix after three seasons. Paul averaged 13.9 points 8.9 assists and 4.3 rebounds per game last season. Paul and the Suns reached the playoffs during each of his three seasons, including a trip to the NBA Finals in 2021. They were knocked out of the playoffs by the Denver Nuggets in the second round this year. The exit resulted in the Suns firing head coach Monty Williams earlier this month and hiring Frank Vogel last week.
Paul missed the the final four games against the Nuggets with a left groin strain. The injury continued Paul’s bad luck with injury issues in the playoffs throughout his 18-year career.
The Suns needed to waive Paul before June 28 or they would have had to pay him $30 million next season. By waiving him, the Suns are responsible for $15.8 million of his salary for 2023-24.
Paul, who reportedly plans to play several more seasons, will have plenty of teams interested in signing him.