With the brightest future in the NBA, the San Antonio Spurs have to thank the draft lottery. They landed the first overall pick in the perfect summer, and drafted Victor Wembanyama, then proceeded to a future rookie of the year in Stephon Castle, who is also superstar bound, just like his unicorn big man.
However, the San Antonio Spurs lost the glue to their guard-forward connection to the LA Clippers with Chris Paul. He helped develop the two youngsters and was of aid to De'Aaron Fox, who is already a star but had some adjusting to do after being traded for the first time in his career.
Furthermore, Paul must bring the same strength of glue to the Clippers, as he will have more of a role than most think. Executive Lawrence Frank made it clear in a press conference over the offseason that he will have minute-less nights, but head coach Tyronn Lue will fold to his urges knowing the 12-time All-Star is a qualified winner.
In the end, Paul's fit could be the factor that determines everything next season.
Chris Paul building chemistry with the starters and the second string will be crucial next season
There is roughly a ninety-nine percent chance that Chris Paul is backing up James Harden and Bradley Beal to open the regular season against the Utah Jazz. This is the expectation, and barring change, Tyronn Lue will begin with what the world thinks.
Conversely, change is to be barred with consequences awaiting to be submitted to Kawhi Leonard and his representatives. This is, by far, the scariest point of the summer, as Adam Silver can change the trajectory of LA's season with one decision based on the actions of the two-time champion.
Moreover, with the possibility of Leonard being out, Paul should be in the right headspace, knowing he could start the season as point guard. This call from Lue would be valid, as Leonard's talent cannot be replaced, but his experience can.
If Leonard is not suspended, the Clippers' title hopes still depend on Paul. His role will be pivotal in preventing a decline in performance from James Harden, which is detrimental, as the former MVP will be the most important player on the team next season.
That said, the Clippers will need Paul to produce in several areas on and off the court next season. If he fits, success is right around the corner, and if he fails, another disappointing outcome will be written in the books.