Can the Rockets realistically sign Chris Paul after shocking waive news?

Heading into this offseason, the Houston Rockets have made it known that they're looking for a point guard. Not only that, the Rockets have had their sights set on acquiring a veteran point guard.

Hence the never-ending James Harden rumors. Harden's situation seems up in the air, with the latest reports suggesting that Harden could be torn between his current Philadelphia 76ers and his former lover in the Rockets.

We've discussed other potential options at the point guard slot, in the event that Harden does in fact stay in Philly. One of the best options outside of Harden has always been Chris Paul, as his veteran status and reputation for being a great mentor for younger players spans several teams, not to mention his reputation for improving teams essentially as soon as he lands there.

Can the Rockets realistically sign Chris Paul after shocking waive news?

Paul should be even more enticing to the Rockets now, after getting released on Wednesday.

Paul will have options much better than the Rockets, if we're being honest, but the market for his services may not be as financially fruitful as he'd imagine, especially if he hopes to land on a contender, because not many of those teams have the wealth of cap space that the Rockets have.

Paul could be looking at a veteran's minimum contract on a contender but could land a mid-level exception with the Rockets, who have $60 million to spend this summer. Granted, we don't know if Paul still has hard feelings for Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta, who reportedly thought his 4 year/$160 million contract was the worst deal he had ever seen in all of sports, but Fertitta could make up for that by giving him more than most other teams this summer.

Plus, Fertitta isn't the reason Paul's exit was so unceremonious, because it was Harden who pushed for the franchise to deal him for his best friend Russell Westbrook after he became available. It'll be a case of whether Paul wants more money or a greater chance to contend for a championship.

Only time will tell.