The one and only way a Chris Paul trade makes sense for the Spurs

The San Antonio Spurs haven't historically been a factor in free agency, but they managed to sign one of the more impactful free agents this past summer. Veteran point guard and future Hall of Famer Chris Paul has been worth every penny to the Spurs.

His shot creation has gotten plenty of easy baskets for his teammates, and he has hit a number of clutch shots to help seal several wins thus far. He has also been a vocal leader, even coaching up teammates from the sideline while he is out of the game.

That has been valuable to a young team hoping to make a big leap in the standings. Even so, there have been rumblings that he might be traded, despite how much he has lived up to expectations. Moving Paul would be an unSpursy thing to do, but there is only one scenario that would make sense.

There's one way a Chris Paul trade makes sense for the Spurs

Given that the Spurs are currently having their best start to a season in the last 5 years, there is no reasonable reason to trade Paul now. However, if the Spurs struggle in January when their schedule gets tough and they find themselves on the outside of the playoffs or play-in tournament, then they may be willing to listen to offers for Paul.

Listening to offers is one thing, but trading him is another. With Paul only earning $11 million this season, contending teams could trade for him relatively easily. But the Spurs would have to get back meaningful assets, such as a first-round pick or multiple second-round picks, for them to make a move.

Paul will also have a say if both he and the Spurs decide that the playoffs are out of reach. Finding a team willing to give the Spurs a meaningful asset or assets that are also on Paul's list might be hard to do.

Hopefully, it won't get to that point, and the Spurs can solidify their place in the Western Conference standings. With the Silver and Black finally having their full roster at interim coach Mitch Johnson's disposal, we will finally get to see just how good this team is.

Especially with Victor Wembanyama starting to find his groove on the offensive end of the floor. Those factors should make a Paul trade unlikely. Therefore, the only way the Spurs should consider trading him is if they are out of the playoff picture and receive future assets for him.