Los Angeles Clippers: 2015-16 Season Outlook

Three Key Storylines (cont.)

2. How Much Longer Will Chris Paul Be Elite?

Stephen Curry was the league’s best player last season. Russell Westbrook is probably the most dynamic point guard in the league. But for years, the title of “best pure point guard” has rested with Chris Paul, a floor general who dictates the tempo of the game with more control than we’ve seen since the days of Magic Johnson and Isiah Thomas. But at age 30, how much longer will CP3 remain elite?

Last season, Paul showed no signs of taking his foot off the gas, averaging 19.1 points, a league-leading 10.2 assists and 4.6 rebounds per game. He posted .485/.398/.900 shooting splits and played all 82 games of the regular season to keep the Clippers afloat when Blake Griffin missed 15 straight games due to an elbow injury.

In the first round of the playoffs, Paul exorcised those “Is Chris Paul a choker?” demons — seemingly once and for all — by making Tony Parker look ancient to the tune of 22.7 points per game on 51.3 percent shooting…not to mention knocking down a ridiculously clutch game-winner on one good leg in Game 7.

For those wondering, Paul’s game should age remarkably well. He may not be able to shake and bake defenders at the same level that he once did, but CP3 is still an excellent shooter, dribbler, passer and defender. Those skills should translate well into his 30s.

The bigger question here is whether he can have the same remarkable health he enjoyed last season. Before the 2014-15 season, CP3 missed 20 games, 10 games and 22 games in each of his three seasons with the Clippers. Added bench depth should help on that front, but the Clippers need Paul at 100 percent to have a prayer in the postseason.

The Clippers are running out of years with Chris Paul in peak form, which is why it’s imperative this team doesn’t take any chances and makes a serious run at the title this year.

Next: Storyline: Can The Clippers Really Win The West?