
USA Today via Reuters
Oct 13, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) talks to guard Chris Paul (3) during the second half against the Los Angeles Lakers at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-USA TODAY Sports

USA Today via Reuters
Oct 13, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) talks to guard Chris Paul (3) during the second half against the Los Angeles Lakers at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-USA TODAY Sports
Despite facing one of their worst seasons in recent years, the Golden State Warriors are managing to stay in playoff discussions, thanks to the abundance of talent across multiple generations on their roster. Moreover, Stephen Curry and Draymond Green are working tirelessly to keep the team afloat as they approach the final stretch of the season. Now, the team eagerly anticipates the return of Chris Paul from his left hand fracture.
Following a recent loss, Steve Kerr expressed his belief in Paul’s ability to provide support for the fatigued Stephen Curry on offense. Kerr claimed to know where exactly Paul would fit in the rotation. Moreover, he also asserted that Paul plays a huge role while sharing the court with Curry, helping alleviate the “battle pressure” that comes with consistently handling the ball.
"Chris, when he comes back, will play all of the non-Steph minutes."
Kerr outlines the plan for CP3 upon returning 👀 pic.twitter.com/IkTbrrYu1a
— Warriors on NBCS (@NBCSWarriors) February 26, 2024
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Since January 5, Chris Paul has been absent from play. With Draymond Green’s on-court issues, Paul’s injury sidelined another veteran from their roster. Moreover, it added to the Warriors’ season-long struggle with inconsistency. Since then, Stephen Curry has been shouldering the extra load for the squad, resulting in an impressive 8-2 stretch leading up to the All-Star break.
Read More – Warriors Injury Update: Play-off Run Looks Hopeful as Huge News on Chris Paul Drops
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Furthermore, with Klay Thompson showcasing his true shooting potential and Draymond Green solidifying the roster, Paul’s return could seamlessly align with their playoff aspirations. Ahead of the Warriors’ game against the Lakers, Paul actively participated in practice. Moreover, his return to the court has been scheduled following the completion of his conditioning.
Chris Paul’s impact on the Warriors
Despite being a future Hall of Famer and regarded as one of the best point guards in history, questions arose about Chris Paul’s fit with the Warriors due to his age and role. While he has already dispelled many of those concerns, Paul has not had ample time to establish himself fully with the team. Across 32 games, he has maintained averages of 8.9 points, 7.2 assists, and 3.8 rebounds, shooting at 42.4 percent from the field and 36.1 percent from beyond the arc.
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With that, Paul’s return might not completely alter the Warriors’ trajectory. However, his veteran experience and basketball IQ can significantly contribute to the team’s offense. Moreover, he has the flexibility to operate in both the main and secondary units. Despite his decent three-point shooting, he excels at knocking down shots from the midrange and setting up teammates for open looks.
Furthermore, Paul’s presence will substantially enhance the team’s depth, potentially lifting the Warriors from their lower position on the Conference table.
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