Awesome stat shows true impact of Chris Paul on Spurs winning ways

The San Antonio Spurs are off to a promising 10-9 start, and much of their success can be attributed to their performance in clutch situations. For a young team still learning how to win, their 4-3 record in clutch games is a significant step forward. While many factors contribute to this improvement, one stands out above the rest: Chris Paul.

When the Spurs acquired Paul in the offseason, the expectation was that his leadership and basketball IQ would guide this young roster in critical moments. Through 19 games, he’s delivered on that promise in spades.

The Spurs rank in the top 10 in offensive rating and top 13 in defensive rating in clutch scenarios—defined as games within five points in the final five minutes. For a team that struggled to close games last season, this is a monumental leap forward.

Half of Spurs games last season came down to losing in clutch

To fully appreciate this improvement, consider where the Spurs were a year ago. Despite a 22-60 record, they played 41 clutch games but managed to win only 13, posting an abysmal 13-28 record.

The reasons for their struggles were clear: turnovers, poor shot selection, and an inability to execute under pressure. The lack of a steadying presence was glaring, and games that could have been victories slipped away far too often.

It was clear to everyone, including the players on the roster, that a veteran presence was needed, and CP3 obliged.

Paul’s presence has been transformative. His ability to control the pace, value each possession, and maintain composure has given the Spurs an edge they lacked. Whether he’s creating the perfect shot for himself, orchestrating the offense to get teammates open looks, or simply calming the team down during tense moments, Paul’s impact is undeniable.

But it’s not just his actions—it’s the ripple effect on his teammates. Young players like Victor Wembanyama and Stephon Castle are feeding off Paul’s poise, growing into clutch performers themselves. Harrison Barnes has also been a steady contributor, but it’s Paul’s command of the floor that has galvanized this team in high-stakes moments.

Clutch situations in the NBA are often a test of mental toughness, and Paul has set the standard for his young teammates. His experience and leadership have turned what was once a glaring weakness into one of San Antonio’s greatest strengths.

The Spurs are learning how to win, and Chris Paul is the key teacher. With his guidance, this team is not only staying competitive but also building a foundation for sustained success in the future.