NBA legend Chris Paul is in his 20th season, now with the San Antonio Spurs, and has already made a big impact. The Spurs are off to the best start in five years and appear to have a shot to make the play-in tournament, possibly leading to them making a win-now trade.
After failing to win a championship in his first 19 seasons, most were surprised that he decided to sign with San Antonio since many suspected that this was Paul's last season in the NBA. However, he has quickly dispelled that notion. Stating that he could play one or two more seasons in the league.
The Spurs should hope so with Paul helping shore up their weakest position at point guard. His passing and timely shotmaking have been useful on a young team in desperate need of both, and his coaching has helped the development of young players. He seems to have specifically focused on rising superstar Victor Wembanyama as well as 2024 4th overall pick Stephon Castle.
Chris Paul being open to playing another season or two is good news for the San Antonio Spurs.
With Paul hoping to play another season or two, the Spurs would surely love to bring him back. After all, they still don't have a long-term point guard in place to replace them. The hope is that Castle will be able to take over the position once Paul retires, and that is a real possibility with him showing plenty of playmaking chops thus far.
Nevertheless, he may not be ready to take on such a role this early on in his career. Instead, having him slowly develop those skills playing alongside Paul would be the ideal situation for him as he learns the NBA ropes.
Paul has a long track record of helping to develop young players and getting them to reach their full potential. Another year or two of Paul's tutelage should help Castle reach what is looking more and more like a high ceiling.
Even if he declines over the next season or two, he will still be a valuable option as a backup given his experience level. His level of play is still relatively high, with him being an elite passer and even being capable of being a decent defender for his position. Combine that with him remaining an accurate mid-range and long-range shooter, and he has the tools to be able to play as many as 22 seasons.
San Antonio likely hopes so, given that they don't have an immediate replacement for him. Especially since his leadership is having a positive effect on a young team that has a chance to be a perennial contender.