Paul says Isiah Thomas had role in trade to Wizards

Chris Paul contended that NBA legend Isiah Thomas played a crucial role in the Phoenix Suns dealing the 38-year-old in a trade for Washington Wizards star Bradley Beal.

"I realize that (owner Mat Ishbia) and Isiah just wanted to go in a different direction," Paul told The New York Times' Sopan Deb.

The Suns will reportedly acquire Beal, Jordan Goodwin, and Isaiah Todd for Paul, Landry Shamet, and several second-round picks and pick swaps. The Wizards are exploring options to expand the deal to a three-team trade, moving Paul to a contending team.

In February, new Suns owner Ishbia maintained that Thomas wasn't employed by the franchise.

Paul added that he found out about the trade on Sunday from his son while on a plane ride to New York to promote his new book.

"It's tough," Paul said. "Seriously, it is part of the business, and what you realize is that no one owes you anything. No matter how you are with them or what you do, you realize that in this business, nobody owes you anything."

When asked about his next move, Paul said he didn't know yet.

"I really haven't had enough time to process it yet. These things that happen affect more than just me," Paul said.

The Suns acquired Paul in 2020. The veteran guard played three seasons with the franchise, reaching the All-Star Game twice and helping lead the Suns to a Finals berth in 2021.

"My time there has been amazing. It's been great. And so, get back to work," Paul said.