The end of the Russell Westbrook era in Oklahoma City marks the start of the Thunder’s full-forced rebuild. Though the team is not without its big-time contracts. Most notable of all is the one belonging to newly acquired Chris Paul, who was in the deal which sent Westbrook to Houston.
The deal also returns Paul to the place he began his career, having played in Oklahoma City for the Hornets in 2005-06 and 2006-07 while New Orleans recovered from the effects of Hurricane Katrina.
Multiple reports indicate the Thunder are working to move Paul and his oversized contract. However, his age and decline in play make him even more challenging to move than Westbrook’s large contract. So there’s a chance he plays in Oklahoma City for a period of time.
Either way, Thunder general manager Sam Presti made sure to welcome his new point guard upon announcing the trade:
Getting a player of Chris’ caliber gives us another experienced playmaker and leader, while the additional draft picks continue to allow us to further commit to the long-term vision that we are embarking on for the Thunder. We welcome Chris back to Oklahoma City where, as a member of the Hornets, he helped to pave the way for the Thunder’s arrival in OKC.
