AP Photo/David ZalubowskiMultiple agents representing impending free-agent pointguards "fear" the New York Knicks, if they are a contender to sign Phoenix Suns star Chris Paul.Ian Begley of SNY reported that Paul can decline a player option under his four-year, $159.7-million contract to become an unrestricted, free agent if he does not agree to a extension with the NBA Finals-bound Suns.Paul was an integral part of Phoenix's success in the Western Conference playoffs. He averaged 18.1 points and 8.7 assists per game, and shot 40.5 percent from 3-point range in 14 series victories over the Los Angeles Lakers and Denver Nuggets.The Suns will make every effort to maintain their core over the summer, especially if the Atlanta Hawks or Milwaukee Bucks win the Finals. However, financial obstacles could arise.Eric Pincus, Bleacher Report's reporter, reported that Phoenix will have to decide whether it wants to exceed the NBA's luxury tax threshold in order to keep the roster together. The team could also face competition from the Knicks or Leon Rose, Leon Rose's ex-agent.Paul raised eyebrows when he gave praise in May after New York's regular-season win.According to the Wake Forest graduate, 36-year-old said that "that team right there, it plays the right way." They have the right energy. They make every game feel like it's a playoff game. They won't give up any possessions."The Knicks will continue to be looking for a point guard in the offseason, regardless of whether Paul is granted free agency. Rose and Co. are more likely to be interested in Paul staying in Phoenix than other agents, which will increase the likelihood of Rose and Co. purchasing their clients' players.However, Paul may be available if New York makes initial efforts to surround him. This is because New York fears for the impact on the market.The Knicks would not be wrong to look at the all-in move. After a season where they posted a 41-31 record, the Knicks are coming off their first playoff bid since 2013. Most of their key contributors, including Julius Randle, RJ Barrett and others, are still under contract for next year.With some depth additions, a triumvirate consisting of Randle, Barrett and Paul could make New York a major threat to the East.This is a great situation to watch once the offseason begins, but the Suns point guard and his team have a championship to chase.
