Ever since the Golden State Warriors made a blockbuster and controversial move for Chris Paul just over six weeks ago, it seems everyone has wanted to have their say on the veteran point-guard’s potential fit with the franchise.
The 12-time All-Star has long been a direct enemy of the Warriors across his decorated 18-year career, but will now team up with his once bitter rivals in Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson and Draymond Green.
Former Golden State Warriors’ center DeMarcus Cousins doesn’t believe that Chris Paul can make a major impact with his new team next season.
Speaking on SiriusXM NBA Radio with Justin Termine and Eddie Johnson, former Golden State big man DeMarcus Cousins has given his thoughts on what Paul can provide his new team next season.
"“He is up in age; you got rid of a young youthful guy for an aging veteran”, Cousins said. “I’m not taking away anything Chris Paul has done throughout his career. I’m just speaking on this stage of his career. I don’t see him elevating the Golden State Warriors.”"
“I didn’t understand the Chris Paul trade”
— SiriusXM NBA Radio (@SiriusXMNBA) August 1, 2023
DeMarcus Cousins had some doubts regarding the Chris Paul trade to Golden State when he spoke with @termineradio and @jumpshot8 #DubNation pic.twitter.com/tBWBKUyQsX
The fact the Warriors moved a talented 24-year-old for a 38-year-old was always the most jarring aspect to the trade. However, Cousins is on his own a little given most believe Paul will at least make the team better in the short-term.
That most importantly includes new General Manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. who recently stated that Paul ‘enhances’ their chance of returning to the NBA mountaintop. Yet given Paul is likely to be a sixth-man with less responsibility next season, Cousins’ perspective doesn’t come without merit.
With just one year remaining on Paul’s contract compared to Poole’s four, there’s little doubt that Golden State were also driven by the financial element. That’s a facet Cousins concedes with the 32-year-old stating, “maybe they want to free up the books for the next season.”
Amid rehabilitation from a torn achilles, Cousins sensationally signed with the Warriors during the 2018 offseason. He played 30 regular season games for the franchise upon his return from injury, also starting five game during Golden State’s 2019 playoff campaign.