Even as they step off the court, plenty of NBA stars can’t leave the game behind, sticking close as analysts, coaches, and commentators. So, who’s the player with the brains and leadership to make the best NBA coach someday? According to the league’s annual general manager survey, it’s none other than Chris Paul, now with the San Antonio Spurs, who snagged 30% of the votes. Following Paul, GMs saw potential in Garrett Temple (20%), Mike Conley (13%), and TJ McConnell and Fred VanVleet (7% each).
Paul’s basketball IQ is off the charts, and after 19 seasons, there’s no one who knows the ins and outs of the game better. He’s seen it all, and the entire league values his insight – he’s practically a player-coach already. As he heads into his debut season with the Spurs at 39, he’s got his hands full helping the team rise from the bottom of the Western Conference standings. Teaming up with the Spurs’ generational talent, Victor Wembanyama, and the iconic Gregg Popovich, Paul has the chance to push this young squad to greatness.
Retirement’s looming, but Paul’s next steps are still a mystery. Will he embrace the coaching role everyone seems to expect, or will he take a different path? Either way, the countdown’s on for one of the game’s sharpest minds to shape the NBA in a whole new way.
