NBA Rumors: Clippers, Chris Paul, James Harden, Cavs, Jarrett Allen, Suns, Knicks

There was chatter that Chris Paul could be on the move as soon as December 15, when he became trade-eligible, but no deal materialized. Since then, the Clippers have formally announced they are parting ways with the franchise icon, and the next step appears to be a collaborative one.

According to Jake Fischer of The Stein Line, the Clippers are working with Paul’s representatives to find a landing spot that appeals to the veteran point guard. Paul’s minimum-salary contract would be easy to move from a technical standpoint, but sources tell Fischer there is no immediate deal close to completion.

So all eyes may be on the February 5 trade deadline. In a larger deal, Paul could be included for salary or roster flexibility, then waived by his new team, allowing the 40-year-old to choose his next destination as a free agent.

Despite years of speculation, Fischer says he has been “strongly advised” that the Lakers are not expected to pursue Paul.

The Rockets could theoretically use backcourt depth, but sources indicate Houston is comfortable with its roster and unlikely to explore additions until later in January due to first-apron restrictions.

Harden Talk

While Paul’s situation remains fluid, the Clippers continue to signal that James Harden is not available.

Fischer notes Harden effectively holds leverage via contract structure. He has an implied no-trade clause for 2025-26, along with a $42.3 million player option for 2026-27 that is partially guaranteed for $13.3 million.

Any team interested in Harden would need clarity on whether it plans to keep him beyond his July 11 guarantee date or negotiate a new deal, making a midseason trade complicated.

Gillespie Market

Suns guard Collin Gillespie continues to raise eyebrows with his breakout season, and rival executives are already projecting his next contract.

Gillespie, who will be an unrestricted free agent in 2026, is viewed by opposing teams as a candidate for a deal similar to the three-year, $27 million contract Ty Jerome signed with Memphis last summer, per Fischer.

Cavs Core

Despite rival teams monitoring the situation, Fischer reiterates that Cleveland has shown no interest in entertaining in-season trade talks involving Darius Garland or Jarrett Allen.

That stance aligns with previous reporting that the Cavaliers remain focused on internal adjustments rather than major roster surgery. That said, Allen’s name is really making the rounds in NBA circles these days.

Knicks News

The strong recent play of rookie Tyler Kolek has opposing teams wondering whether New York’s trade deadline focus could shift.

As Fischer writes, rival executives are questioning whether the Knicks may prioritize frontcourt help instead of pursuing a veteran point guard. Which direction the Knicks ultimately choose remains unclear, but Kolek’s emergence has at least broadened their options.