Chris Paul report is a clear indication of young core's level of focus

The San Antonio Spurs are undergoing a significant transformation, and Chris Paul’s leadership is playing a crucial role. Recent reports indicate that Paul’s demanding leadership style has been embraced by the team, and Victor Wembanyama is the significant reason for that.

This report is a clear indication of the focus and mindset of the Spurs' young core this season. For one of the youngest teams in the league, they’re making it clear that "youth" will no longer be an excuse.

The Spurs are showing more drive than fans have seen in years

The first two preseason games, against the Oklahoma City Thunder and Orlando Magic, have already shown glimpses of what this team can become. Both games highlighted the team's improved defense and overall focus.

With the game against the Utah Jazz in the books, the Spurs are inching closer to solidifying their identity ahead of the regular season. And while there’s plenty of basketball still to be played, the final two preseason matchups against the Miami Heat on October 15 and the Houston Rockets on October 17 will serve as valuable opportunities for further growth.

One of the most notable changes from last season is the sheer effort these players are putting in. Keldon Johnson’s physical transformation this offseason, where he noticeably trimmed down, is a prime example. He’s committed to elevating his game, and his shift in focus is evident.

Wemby, meanwhile, has been leading by example, diving into his offseason workouts the moment last season ended. Despite being in his second NBA season, the French superstar’s professional experience overseas has accelerated his development, and his commitment is rubbing off on his teammates.

The Spurs are beginning to value every possession on both ends

Defensively, the team looks energized. In both the Thunder and Magic games, their intensity was leaps and bounds ahead of where it was at this point last season. Chris Paul’s influence here is undeniable. His reputation for demanding excellence has clearly resonated with the team.

Paul has built a 20-year career on holding his teammates accountable, and it’s no accident that he’s made the playoffs nearly every year. Spurs players seem eager to soak up every bit of knowledge CP3 has to offer, even if his approach is sometimes harsh.

What’s encouraging for fans is that this new mindset mirrors the Spurs' long-standing culture under Coach Gregg Popovich. Pop famously coached Tim Duncan hard, knowing that Duncan’s acceptance of criticism would set the tone for the rest of the team.

Similarly, Wembanyama’s willingness to listen and learn from Paul’s leadership shows he’s ready to lead by example. When the franchise’s cornerstone accepts tough love, it creates a culture of discipline throughout the roster.

While the Spurs have already shown flashes of what they’re capable of in preseason, they’re still a work in progress. The upcoming games against Miami and Houston will offer additional chances for growth and lineup experimentation before the regular season begins.

However, it’s already clear that the focus is there, and the team is committed to improvement. The Spurs' young players have accepted the challenge, and with veterans like Chris Paul and Harrison Barnes leading the way, the foundation is being laid for something special in San Antonio.