Golden State Warriors defeated the Houston Rockets 106-95 in a game that saw Chris Paul come off the bench for the first time in his illustrious 19-year-long NBA career. However, it ended well for Steve Kerr’s team as they secured the win and Paul was also pretty good with his role.
Some people felt that Paul would be reluctant to start from the bench for the Warriors as he has never done so in his career. But the veteran seems to be completely fine with his team’s decision.
Following the game, the Point God was asked about his role and his experience of playing as a bench player. He shared it was a new role for him but he adjusted as the game started and when he stepped on the court. After starting in 1,365 straight games, this is the first time Paul started off the bench.
“It was different. I mean, Klay (Thompson) told me (1,365) straight games,” Paul said.
He shared how the warmup was also different for him. But overall he enjoyed the experience of playing for the Warriors and really enjoyed the free-flowing gameplay. “It’s definitely different, but at the end of the day, it’s basketball. So, for me, the warmup is different, a lot of it was, but once you get out there and play in the game, now it’s hooping. It’s cool to be on a team like this where it’s just free-flowing. Everybody playing and sharing the ball.”
The 38-year-old is willing to put everything on the line to help the Warriors succeed this season. “It’s whatever I got to do to help this team win. If that means (not starting), if that means not finishing some games or whatnot,” Paul said.
“If you get a chance to play long enough in your career, there’s things that’s gonna change, there’s things that’s gonna be different. And, you know, I’m here.” he added.
If things stay alright at the Warriors camp then we may regularly see Paul leading the second unit and coming off the bench. His leadership and playmaking skills with the second unit are very crucial for Steve Kerr’s men.
The Warriors will next go up against the New Orleans Pelicans, who have won their first two games of the new season.
