Chris Paul’s role has been the biggest discussion point this offseason since his blockbuster trade to the Golden State Warriors on draft day in June.
It was only natural then that the veteran point-guard was asked about it again at media day on Monday, with speculation rife about Paul’s willingness to come off the bench as he enters his 19th season in the league.
Latest comments from Chris Paul provide some optimism on his preparedness to take on a sixth man role with the Golden State Warriors.
After initially showing some public hesitancy towards a bench role shortly after the trade, Paul appeared more open to the idea at media day where he pointed to his experience playing with Team USA.
"“I actually had an opportunity to come off the bench for the Olympic team and that went pretty well. Anyone who knows me, knows that I’m all about winning…For the season, it’s going to be whatever to help our team win and I think I’ve tried to show or proven that my entire career”, the 38-year-old said."
A decision on whether Paul starts or comes off the bench may be pushed back, with Draymond Green’s ankle injury expected to sideline him for the start of the regular season.
That may allow the 12-time All-Star to start alongside Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, Andrew Wiggins and Kevon Looney on opening night against his former team, the Phoenix Suns, on October 24.
Paul recognizing and mentioning his time with Team USA demonstrates a greater openness to a bench role than what’s appeared in previous media commitments. Perhaps that’s unsurprising given the season is now approaching, but nonetheless it’s a positive for Warrior fans that are hoping the former foe can fit effectively with his new team.
The 18-year NBA veteran has never come off the bench in over 1350 combined regular season and playoff games, yet one suspects that streak will end at some point in his first year with Golden State.