Chris Paul Wants Out...

Chris Paul, according to Ken Berger of CBS, hopes to have played his last game for the Hornets and has set into motion a plan to be traded by the start of the upcoming season. His teams of choice are said to be the Knicks, Lakers and Magic, and people close to him have said he has played his last game for the Hornets. Paul recently signed with LeBron James' marketing company, LRMR, which also fuels speculation that he will fight his way out of New Orleans, despite having two years left on his contract. Stay tuned.

Wherever Paul lands will directly effect the Nets, and of course we all hope that is in the most direct sense -- meaning the Nets acquire him at virtually any cost. The possibility of teaming up CP3 with Brook and whichever young gunner(s) we would hopefully maintain could all but guarantee a solidified playoff team. If Paul gets his wish to go to a perennial contender like the Lakers or Magic as speculated, either team can instantly become the favorite to win the title (some of course already have the defending champs situated ahead of the Miami Thrice Superfriends anyway.) If Paul were to somehow be dealt to the Knicks for Curry's expiring contract and some young talent, the East will automatically become way deeper and the Nets chance of topping the Knicks this season would plummet, ending this notion of renaissance in the rivalry between the Nets and Knicks. A lineup of CP3, Walker/Chandler (whoever is not dealt), Gallo, Ant Rand and Amare with quality role players would easily be a top tier team in the east. 

UPDATE: (noon, July 22)

ESPN is reporting Chris Paul reportedly hopes to be traded to the Knicks, followed by the Magic, Mavericks, and Trail Blazers.