Reliance on Chris Paul is a double-edged sword Spurs must manage carefully

It may take some time to get used to Chris Paul being on the San Antonio Spurs, but his play should quickly help fans become adjusted. His biggest strengths, aside from being an elite playmaker, involve his ability to whip young teams into shape and quickly turn them into winners.

That has led to expectations that he will be able to do the same with the young Spurs but that is a lot to ask for a 39-year-old player who will be entering his 20th season in the NBA. Paul will likely play limited minutes and rest back-to-back games in many cases.

But, even if he plays around 25 minutes a game over 66 games, that could be enough to help the Spurs make it back to the playoffs for the first time in 5 years.

Of course, that assumes that there isn't any significant drop-off in his play, and while he came off the bench last season for the Golden State Warriors, he still managed to average more than seven assists per game. If he declines further, he may not be as impactful as many thought he would be, and that could dramatically alter this team's ceiling.

The San Antonio Spurs must be careful about how they use Chris Paul

Paul is on his last leg as a player. While he should still be an upgrade at point guard for the Spurs, they will also have to lean on backup Tre Jones. Coach Gregg Popovich essentially splitting the point guard minutes between Paul and Jones will help to preserve Paul for what is hopefully a long season that includes a trip back to the postseason.

It would also minimize the risk of injury for CP3 while allowing Jones to continue his solid play in the second unit, where he is best suited. He would also keep the Spurs from having to over-rely on Paul. That would ultimately be more useful for San Antonio, with Paul playing more of a supporting role and helping get players involved.

His passing should still have a major impact, with him being the ideal player to get Victor Wembanyama the ball, either in the pick-and-roll or in pick-and-pops. Also, once Devin Vassell is fully healthy, Paul should be able to get him easier shots as well.

Ultimately, with Paul nearing 40 and possibly playing his last season, the Spurs may want to be cautious with how much they rely on him. Still, he can be an impactful player this season for the Silver and Black.