After three consecutive DNPs for Chris Paul, there has been a feeling of the end of an era, as his value has been slowly going down due to his capabilities.
The veteran floor general has returned to his former team, the Los Angeles Clippers, but with a different role this time, given his age.
In eight appearances this season, the 40-year-old guard is averaging 2.3 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game while shooting 24% from the field, which might be the most significant difference in his season so far in his entire career.
Meanwhile, Clippers head coach Tyronn Lue discussed Paul’s true role with the team in this current season, where it was just his leadership and experience.
“Just his leadership. Talking to the guys, talking to the coaches of what he sees, what we can do better. Before we acquired, we told him he wasn’t gonna be an every-night guy,” Lue explained.
The coaching staff and the future Hall of Famer understood what it means his current role means, which Paul can help with in other ways aside from being present on the court.
“He understood that. He has so much knowledge and he’s been around the game so long that he can help us in other ways to win.”
However, there might be some changes later on, as the Clippers have been struggling to find their groove, currently in a slump with a 3-8 win-loss record.
Bradley Beal is undergoing season-ending surgery, while Kawhi Leonard’s prolonged absence could impact the rotations and affect their ability to win games.
Paul’s career stats are very far from his current version, as he averaged 16.9 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 9.2 assists and shot 46.9% from the field.
