OKC Thunder: Chris Paul moxy tops 5 takeaways from 2020 NBA All-Star Game

Veteran Moxy:

While Kawhi Leonard won the highest accolade it could be argued the two players who best embodied this new style were the veteran point guards on each side. OKC Thunder point God Chris Paul and Raptors bulldog Kyle Lowry each affected their club’s performance. It was clear how each of their games is pivotal to why both their varsity teams are winning this season.

A common sight on LeBron James teams whether his varsity teams or previous All-Star squads are players standing around listening to the King. But, in this match much like he’s done all season for the OKC Thunder it was Chris Paul who often was leading the huddles and discussing plays and defense with his court mates – James, Anthony Davis, Kawhi Leonard, and James Harden.

Although the dunk early in the game was something special, if not for Leonard’s defensive brilliance there was a very real argument for Paul to win the MVP. His three 3-pointers single-handedly erased the nine-point deficit Team LeBron trailed by to start the fourth. He was everywhere on the court cutting down passing lanes, playing tough-nosed defense and although LeBron was the key ball handler CP3’s effect was palpable.

Similarly, Kyle Lowry showcased why those of us who live North of the Border regard Lowry in a similar vein as Paul is in OKC. He drew three charges although only two were counted and was a bulldog defensively.

As the league shifts to the next generation the education Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Fred VanVleet are gaining through these two amazing leaders will be felt for years to come.