The Golden State Warriors determined they needed to make a move this offseason and they swung for the fences as they traded Jordan Poole away to the Washington Wizards in exchange for Chris Paul.
Paul has been a long-time antagonist for the Warriors but now joins his former rivals in their pursuit of another championship.
Golden State’s got a tougher road to the Finals as the Western Conference is loaded with other contenders like the Denver Nuggets, Los Angeles Lakers, and Phoenix Suns.
There are also teams like the Memphis Grizzlies, L.A. Clippers, and Sacramento Kings who would like to crash the party.
However, Paul certainly adds another dimension to the Warriors’ offense as he can play either on or off the ball and organize the offense as needed.
While there has been a lot made of whether or not Paul will start or come off the bench, Dennis Scott believes the more interesting question is who closes games via NBA TV.
.@JaredSGreenberg and @Dennis3DScott talk CP3's fit with the Warriors pic.twitter.com/ZbrshoFs1z
— NBA TV (@NBATV) October 6, 2023
In reality, starting lineup choices are far less important than who closes games as that is typically when head coaches will play their five best players.
Having Paul come off the bench at the start of games makes sense as he can help keep the offensive flow going when Curry sits, but come crunch time he is a questionable fit because of his defensive limitations.
If Steve Kerr opts to play both Curry and Paul at the same time, they’d be giving up a lot of size to opposing teams and giving them multiple options to hunt.
Paul has earned the benefit of the doubt, but there could be nights where Kerr decides to go elsewhere.
NEXT: Chris Paul Is In Awe Of 1 Warriors Teammate
