We all know that Victor Wembanyama was crowned Rookie of the Year for the 23-24 season without any doubt.
Compared with the immediate combat power and potential shown on the defensive end, Wembanyama is more worried about the offensive end.
In terms of shooting positions, 33.2% came from outside the three-point line. One three-pointer for every three shots shows that this is the primary finish. For example, in the two games against the Nuggets, Grizzlies, 76ers and Warriors, they all shot at least 10+ three-pointers.
In terms of finishing methods, the two-point assisted power is 72.8%, and the three-point assisted power is 79.7%.
Judging from the data, Wembanyama is still projected from the outside line and "eats cakes".
From this, it is not difficult to understand why the Spurs are looking for a veteran point guard. To put it bluntly, guide Wembanyama to grow rapidly on the offensive end.
According to ESPN, Chris Paul has agreed to a one-year, 11 million contract with the Spurs. In other words, Wembanyama is about to welcome a 12-time All-Star coach on the court.
In addition, Valanciunas and the Wizards reached a three-year, 30 million franchise contract.
In 235 games in three seasons for the Pelicans, Valanciunas averaged 14.6 points and 10.1 rebounds per game while shooting 54.9 percent from the field.
Last season with the Warriors, Paul averaged 9.2 points and 6.8 assists per game while shooting 44.1% from the field.
In contrast, it's clear that Paul's contract is at a premium. But considering the Spurs' need for a point guard and the length of the contract, it's still acceptable.
For the Lakers, it's a pity not to get Paul, but it's not so bad not to get Paul for 11 million. At the end of the day, the latter isn't cost-effective — the Lakers don't want the Spurs and can't afford to offer Paul a starting spot.
Taking a step back, if the Lakers really signed Paul for 11 million or more, this summer's reinforcement will be over.
In addition, the Clippers averaged 36.3 points per game off the bench during the regular season. For comparison, the Warriors are averaging 45.6 points per game off the bench and the Pacers 46.8 points per game. Obviously, the Clippers bench didn't have a lot of offensive firepower.
If Paul joins, the Clippers' bench offensive ability will be improved by at least one notch. This is one of them. Second, Paul and Harden worked together when they were with the Rockets, and to some extent, the tacit understanding is not a problem.
It is worth mentioning that Paul's peak was spent with the Clippers. It can be said that without the Spurs' shot, Paul's return to the Clippers is very likely.
To sum up, the Spurs signed Paul with 1 year and 11 million, which we can understand as helping the Lakers kill two birds with one stone.
First, let the Lakers' reinforcement continue;
Second, prevent the Clippers from reinforcing the Clippers.
Relatively speaking, the second point is more important for the Lakers. After all, once the Clippers form a lineup of Harden + Leonard + Paul, not only the attraction on and off the court will also be greatly improved. Therefore, the Lakers really have to thank the Spurs and Popovich.