3 surprising ways Chris Paul will add value to the Spurs this upcoming season
By Cal Durrett
2. Paul has the know-how to turn the Spurs offense around
The Spurs struggled at times to find Wembanyama last season, leaving easy points on the table. Somehow, he managed to still average 21 points per game, though his efficiency took a hit.
That is where Paul comes in. He is one of the best lob throwers in NBA history and has made players such as Tyson Chandler, DeAndre Jordan, and Deandre Ayton better, but Wembanyama is far more talented, not to mention taller.
Paul should be able to consistently set him up for easy dunks in the pick-and-roll. Wembanyama could also thrive as a shooter in pick-and-pops, with Paul an expert at creating space by using screens, which can generate Wemby open spot-up opportunities. Paul, too, will benefit from playing with Wembanyama, with Paul being a threat to score in the pick and roll, given that he is an elite pull-up shooter.
Additionally, he should help Devin Vassell, who is known for taking and making tough shots, get higher percentage looks. That could do wonders for Vassell's offensive game, while Jeremy Sochan should benefit from CP3's presence with him cutting off-ball.
All of that would potentially give the Spurs a highly efficient offense. After ranking 26th in offensive rating, Paul running the show could help them jump into the top 10. Meanwhile, another season under Wemby's belt could help the Spurs jump from 22nd on the other end of the floor to a similar rank on defense. Being near the top 10 on both ends of the floor would be enough to get the Spurs back into the playoffs.