Phoenix Suns: Grading Chris Paul deal that makes them contenders

Trade grades for the Phoenix Suns

Make no mistake, the Phoenix Suns gave up a lot for Chris Paul, but it was well worth it. Ricky Rubio is a solid point guard, but Paul is a significant upgrade on both ends of the floor. He should also be an outstanding fit alongside Suns star Devin Booker, who is probably the biggest selling point on the team in the first place for Paul.

With Paul on board, either player will be both initiate offense or play off the ball, and he represents a defensive upgrade as well. Rubio was no slouch, but even now Paul is one of the best defensive point guards in the NBA.

There isn’t a part of this Phoenix Suns team that Chris Paul won’t touch and improve. Aside from little things like defense and offense, he’ll also provide experience and mentorship of the caliber that only a few players in the league could. Last year, Deandre Ayton displayed some poor youthful judgment by getting suspended early in the year, and he almost missed the start of a game in the NBA bubble because he missed a COVID test, but you can bet mistakes like that won’t happen (not more than once at least) with Chris Paul in the locker room.

Chris Paul is a veteran All-Star on a young and hungry team, and thanks to this trade the Suns are likely to make the playoffs and maybe even really push a team once they get to the postseason.

Grade: A