NBA Player Power Rankings: Change of the Guard

Mar 16, 2016; Sacramento, CA, USA; Sacramento Kings center DeMarcus Cousins (15) steals the ball from New Orleans Pelicans forward Anthony Davis (23) during the third quarter at Sleep Train Arena. The Pelicans defeated the Kings 123-108. Mandatory Credit: Ed Szczepanski-USA TODAY Sports /

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March 13, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Clippers guard Chris Paul (3) moves the ball up court against Cleveland Cavaliers during the second half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /

8. Chris Paul, Los Angeles Clippers

Last Rank: No. 8

Position: Point Guard

Age: 30

Slash Line: .467/.374/.894

Season Averages: 33.3 MPG, 19.8 PPG, 9.9 APG, 4.0 RPG, 2.2 SPG, 1.7 3PM

Blake Griffin hasn’t played since Christmas Day, and the Los Angeles Clippers haven’t missed a beat. Believe it or not, after opening the season at a pedestrian 17-13 with Griffin, the Clippers have bordered on elite without him.

If you’re not too busy getting caught up on his spotty postseason resume, you can credit Chris Paul for the Clippers’ remarkable turnaround.

Los Angeles is 26-11 without Griffin, and that’s been the result of Paul making the players around him better. DeAndre Jordan looks like a genuine scoring threat, the second unit has found stability, and J.J. Redick is playing like Ray Allen on the Boston Celtics.

If you haven’t before, intently watch the Clippers play; you’ll learn to appreciate CP3.

Statistically, Paul is averaging 21.3 points, 10.6 assists, and 2.2 steals since Griffin went down. Beyond the numbers, he sets everything in motion for the Clippers, facilitating in ways that extend beyond assists.

Paul is one of the greatest players of our generation, and this season is one of his many masterpieces.

Next: Overcoming All Hurdles