Brooklyn has plenty of young talent, but what they really need is someone who can bring it all together, a true floor general to unlock their full potential. That is where the vet Chris Paul comes in.
Paul is about to hit free agency before what could be his 21st NBA season. At 39 last year, he did something pretty remarkable, he played all 82 games for just the second time in his entire career. That kind of durability, especially at his age, is something you just do not see every day. Sure, he is not the extraordinary talented superstar he used to be, but he still knows how to get the job done, averaging solid numbers and, more importantly, running the game the smart and correct way.
Paul’s track record as a leader speaks for itself
Last season he helped Stephon Castle snag Rookie of the Year honors and played a key role in Victor Wembanyama’s development. Also let’s not forget how his mentorship was pivotal for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s rise from promising rookie to MVP candidate in Oklahoma City. That kind of guidance is invaluable.
Here is the great thing about Chris Paul:
He is not afraid to join a team that is still building. He has shown in San Antonio and OKC that he is willing to embrace a rebuild, bringing leadership and stability along the way. And because he’s looking for a shorter, more affordable deal, it’s a low-risk, high-reward move for Brooklyn.
Listen, even if things do not pan out, the Nets can always trade him at the deadline. He is still valuable to contenders who need a solid playmaker down the stretch, and Brooklyn should be able to get some pretty good assets or draft picks in return. It’s a win-win scenario, a chance to grow the team now, with a built-in safety net.
The biggest reason Brooklyn should go after CP3:
The biggest reason has to do with Cam Thomas. The kid can score, no question, but he is still learning how to be more than just a scorer. Paul can teach him how to read defenses, and be a playmaker, skills that could take Thomas from “dynamic shooter” to a truly complete player.
This won’t turn Brooklyn into instant contenders, but adding a seasoned leader like Chris Paul could be the a great opportunity to help the team progress. They need a guide. It is clear that Paul could be that, he has done it before who is to say he can’t do it again?