Before the current season started, there was an expectation for Chris Paul and the Golden State Warriors to make a deep playoff run. But after a loss to the Sacramento Kings, that expectations has turned to heartbreak for fans of the Point God and the franchise.
Like LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers, the Sacramento Kings won their Play-In Tournament game in a 118-94 win over the Dubs. Sophomore Keegan Murray notched 32 points on 61 percent shooting from beyond the arc and nine rebounds. De’Aaron Fox made 24 points and six assists, while Domantas Sabonis posted 16 points and 12 rebounds.
The Dubs, on the other hand, were led by All-Star point guard Stephen Curry with his 22 points, four rebounds, two assists, and two steals in 36 minutes on the court. Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody had 16 points from the bench, while Chris Paul tallied three points and two assists in 18 minutes.
The loss ended Golden State’s quest to reach the Finals this year as Curry’s window to win another ring is getting dimmer. The Kings, meanwhile, will face the New Orleans Pelicans to secure a playoff spot against Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Over the course of 58 games this season, Paul has averaged 9.2 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 6.8 assists. These numbers are a far cry to his career averages of 17.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 9.4 assists. With the Point God taking a backseat during his stint with the Warriors, it only makes sense for Paul’s stats to dip this year.
There are a lot of things Golden State needs to figure out in the offseason, including the fate of Paul and All-Star guard Klay Thompson.
