Phoenix Suns Reject Chris Paul Return Despite Devin Booker Support

The Phoenix Suns are centering their 2025-26 season around Devin Booker, who recently signed a two-year, $145 million extension, with expectations for a career-best campaign. Despite Booker's desire to reunite with veteran point guard Chris Paul, who played a key role in the Suns' 2021 NBA Finals run, the Suns chose not to re-sign Paul, instead allowing him to join the Los Angeles Clippers. The decision was reportedly influenced by concerns over how Paul's leadership style would mesh with first-year head coach Jordan Ott, despite Paul's reputation as a savvy veteran mentor, as highlighted by his recent tenure with the San Antonio Spurs. This move leaves the Suns without a proven floor general, with players like Jalen Green and Jared Butler likely to compete for point guard duties, raising questions about the team's ability to provide Booker with sufficient support. The Suns had also pursued defensive-minded Marcus Smart, who ultimately signed with the Lakers, indicating the team's efforts to bolster their roster defensively. Booker's role as the focal point remains clear, but the team's front office decisions have sparked debate about their strategy to maximize his and the team's success.