Legendary NBA insider reveals why Kobe Bryant and Chris Paul team-up would’ve failed
Adrian Wojnarowski recently revealed why a partnership between Kobe Bryant and Chris Paul may not have led to the success many expected.
Follow Us
Chris Paul
One of the most enduring “what if’s” in NBA history is the proposed trade that would have sent Chris Paul to the Los Angeles Lakers in 2011. The deal, which was reportedly near completion, would have paired Paul with Kobe Bryant to form a formidable backcourt duo. However, the trade was ultimately vetoed, leaving fans to wonder what could have been.
In a recent interview on Carmelo Anthony’s podcast 7pm in Brooklyn, Adrian Wojnarowski, who broke the news of the proposed trade, shared his thoughts on what might have been. Wojnarowski believes that while the pairing of Paul and Bryant would have been incredible, it’s unlikely they would have become the best team in the league.
I’m not sure Chris Paul and Kobe Bryant at that time were the best team in the league.
Adrian Wojnarowski said
He cites the lack of a dominant big man as a key factor, noting that the importance of a strong center was often underestimated at the time.
The vetoed trade had a significant impact on Chris Paul’s career, as he was eventually traded to the Los Angeles Clippers instead. This move marked the beginning of the most successful era in Clippers history, with Paul joining forces with Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan to form the iconic “Lob City” trio.
Despite the ‘success’ Chris Paul achieved with the Clippers, many fans and pundits continue to wonder what could have been if he had joined the Lakers. Some believe that pairing Paul with Kobe Bryant would have resulted in Paul’s first NBA championship, leaving many to ponder the what-ifs of this alternate scenario.
Chris Paul surpasses Jason Kidd to become second on the all-time assist
Chris Paul made history by surpassing Jason Kidd’s record of 12,091 assists, cementing his place as one of the greatest playmakers in NBA history. The San Antonio Spurs honored Paul’s achievement during a timeout, with a special announcement and video tribute on the arena’s jumbotron.
The crowd gave Paul a standing ovation, and his teammate, Victor Wembanyama, congratulated him on the bench.
Wembanyama, returning from a two-game absence due to back issues, led the Spurs with a standout performance, recording 25 points, 10 rebounds and three blocks. Paul’s milestone was achieved against the Pelicans where his legendary career began.
After the game, the Spurs presented Paul with a commemorative basketball and framed picture, celebrating his remarkable milestone. Paul expressed his gratitude, reflecting on the journey that has taken him through 20 seasons and six different teams. Despite being a rival player for many years, Paul was touched by the warm reception from the Spurs fans, who have often booed him in the past.
Stay Updated!
Anubhav Bajpeyee
(260 Articles Published)