Chris Paul to miss six to eight weeks with thumb fracture

Suns star Chris Paul will miss at least six to eight weeks after suffering a right thumb avulsion fracture, Chris Haynes of Yahoo Sports tweets. Phoenix currently holds the best record in the NBA at 48-10.

As we previously relayed, Paul sustained the injury against Houston on Wednesday night and underwent an MRI on Thursday. He has yet to miss a game this season.

“We’re 48-10 and if we do miss some time, I know the guys are going to hold it down,” Paul said before his timetable was announced. “There’s always going to be a frustration with injury. My hand surgeon is part of my family now.”

“I always want to play. When I felt that in my hand, I was mad for all types of reasons,” Paul said. “Obviously we’re not going to (rush it). I’m going to try to heal as fast as physically possible. The second I’m able to play, I guarantee you I will be playing.”

The Suns do expect both Cameron Payne and Landry Shamet to return after the All-Star Break, which is perfect timing with Paul’s injury. Point guard Elfrid Payton figures to see a minutes increase, as well.

Paul, 36, is in his 17th NBA season and second year with Phoenix. He’s averaged 14.9 points, 10.7 assists and 1.9 steals per contest this campaign, shooting 49% from the floor. The Suns are coming off their first NBA Finals trip since 1993.