In the offseason, the San Antonio Spurs gambled on 39-year-old point guard Chris Paul to match youthful star center Victor Wembanyama with an experienced playmaker. Paul still makes a difference even with his time in the league running out running out.
Wednesday night the Spurs are meeting the Dallas Mavericks, and Paul accomplished an amazing achievement to demonstrate his superior longevity. Passing Hall of Fame point guard Gary Payton, Paul formally entered 17th on the NBA's all-time games played list.
Paul trails only John Stockton in both the all-time thefts and all-time assists list, however he ranks 17th on the all-time games played leaderboard.
Although the 12-time All-Star is a lock for the Hall of Fame, it is unfortunate that the venerable point guard will probably complete his career without an MVP accolade or NBA title.
By signing Paul to a one-year contract, the Spurs made a wise decision since his off-the-court influence will probably leave a longer effect on San Antonio's young core than his on-the-court presence, which might be far more beneficial.
Paul will pass both Paul Pierce and Kobe Bryant to land in 15th place on the all-time games played list as long as he participates in at least 11 of the Spurs' last 18 games of the season.
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