In the superb season of the Phoenix Suns, Chris Paul perfectly played his role as conductor. Author of solid performances, the leader has above all put himself at the service of the collective of the Arizona franchise.
Despite less impressive statistics in terms of points (14.7 average, his lowest career total), CP3 maintains a huge impact on the game, with in particular 10.8 assists on average (his 3rd highest career total) .
As a leader, he knew how to evolve his game to make better use of the qualities of his partners. But beware, the former Los Angeles Clippers sent a serious warning to Suns competitors last night.
Chris Paul tested, Chris Paul winner
Indeed, during Game 1 between Phoenix and the New Orleans Pelicans in the Playoffs, the unfortunate finalist from last year won (110-99). A victory acquired thanks to the performance of Paul. With 30 points and 10 assists, the native of Winston-Salem was the great architect of this success.
By the way, he has also become the oldest player (at 37) to achieve such a performance (at least 30 points and 10 assists) in a Playoffs match. In front of an elder of the house, Steve Nash (at age 36). And at the same time, CP3 is only the 5th player in NBA history with 10 (or more) Playoff games with such a copy. Behind players like LeBron James (22) et Michael Jordan (15).
An XXL contribution which is also explained by the test carried out by the Pelicans with him. Former teammate and coach of the point guard, the coach of New Orleans Willie Green prompted his players to force shots from the Suns leader.
And despite a nice comeback from his people, Green saw his strategy shattered in the money-time: 17 points (3 award-winning shots in a row) in 5 minutes for Paul to bend this game.
“I felt like they were inviting me to shoot. I know Willie, he’s my guy. So it’s part of the game,” said Chris Paul, who did not hesitate to challenge Green look after his successful attempts.
“We went under a few screens and he just stood behind and shot 3 points. Mistakes were on our side, especially on my side as a coach. I have to do better with our defense. Chris, it’s is just what he does,” acknowledged the Pels coach.
A good way to make a reminder: Chris Paul always has this ability to take control of a match.
Chris Paul, the observation that shows how much he is an ultimate winner
An undisputed leader
And of course, we can understand this attempt by New Orleans. With his choices, Green had almost succeeded in reducing the gap from 23 to 6 points. He wanted to play the trick to the end by testing Paul. A losing bet.
At this stage of the competition, it was a daring choice. In any case, at the Suns, there was no doubt about CP3’s response to this challenge. Watching his boss at work, Devin Booker never shivered.
“This man is a real competitor and a real winner. When he wants it that bad, you can see it in his demeanor and feel it in his step. So that should come as no surprise to anyone. So he’s built for those times. “, summed up the back.
Same speech for the Suns coach Monty Williams. In important moments, the 50-year-old technician knows very well that he can rely on him.
“A classic Chris. It’s just his ability to understand that he has to take control of a match. I don’t think I’ve been around someone like Chris who has this innate feeling for money-time”, a- he so admired.
Phoenix is definitely in good hands. After a high-quality regular season finished in first place, the steamroller seems ready to roll out in the Playoffs. And Chris Paul is indeed in control.
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