The San Antonio Spurs didn’t make many changes in the summer but they did add 12-time All-Star Chris Paul.
Paul will improve the team’s backcourt and could build a very strong relationship with Rookie of the Year Victor Wembanyama.
Speaking to the press, via Josh Paredes and ClutchPoints, head coach Gregg Popovich talked about Paul and how hard he’s been on the Spurs over the years.
Popovich said:
“I’ve despised Chris for many years. It was difficult to play against him because he’s a clever, clever, clever player. His IQ is off the charts. It was always difficult because he’s thinking ahead of us coaches. You hate to play against him but you respect the hell out of him.”
Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich on Chris Paul:
“I’ve despised Chris for many years. It was difficult to play against him because he’s a clever, clever, clever player. His IQ is off the charts. It was always difficult because he’s thinking ahead of us coaches. You hate to play… pic.twitter.com/sopbI0IIvg
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) September 30, 2024
Popovich isn’t the only person who believes Paul’s basketball IQ is off the charts.
For years, he has proven himself to be one of the smartest men in the NBA and has a wonderful handle on the ball, how to make plays, and how to work well with others.
He has been in the league for 19 seasons and comes to the Spurs as a historic and accomplished veteran.
Will he improve San Antonio’s chances in the new season?
As great as Wembanyama was last season, it was very clear that the team still has a ways to go before they are truly playoff contenders again.
Is Paul the missing piece they needed?
Last season, he averaged 9.2 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 6.8 assists for the Golden State Warriors, which are some of his lowest numbers in years.
Will he improve those stats in San Antonio?
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Spurs Will Start Season Without 1 Key Player