Thinking Basketball 21st century peaks Ep 8 | Floor generals, “engines” & 2-way Midrangers
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Sep 11, 2025 The discussion features the evolution of Chris Paul's floor general role and how his defensive strategies changed over time. They explore Kawhi Leonard's scoring prowess and team dynamics, revealing the surprising effectiveness of his mid-range game. The podcast also dives into the complexities of player matchups, emphasizing the dual impact of shorter players on both offense and defense. Insights into the evolution of shooting styles highlight changes in efficiency and tactical approach, creating an engaging analysis of these basketball stars.
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Two Distinct Chris Paul Peaks
- Chris Paul presents two distinct peaks: explosive, rim-attacking New Orleans Paul and controlled, communicative Clippers Paul.
- His role and effectiveness depend heavily on teammates and injuries shaping each peak.
Paul As The Classic Floor General
- New Orleans Paul combined rim attacks, strong mid-range shooting, and pick-and-roll orchestration to run his offense.
- He acted as a classic floor general who directed actions like post touches and lobs rather than purely creating downhill chaos.
Turnover Suppression Is Hidden Value
- Paul’s playmaking reduces turnovers massively, improving team efficiency even if his shot quality is slightly conservative.
- Turnover suppression can be worth multiple extra quality possessions per game.