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OKC Thunder: 35 moments in honor of Chris Paul’s 35th birthday

By Tamberlyn Richardson

JANUARY 25: Chris Paul #3 of the OKC Thunder smiles during the game against the Minnesota Timberwolves (Photo by David Sherman/NBAE via Getty Images)
JANUARY 25: Chris Paul #3 of the OKC Thunder smiles during the game against the Minnesota Timberwolves (Photo by David Sherman/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 and Chris Paul #3 of the OKC Thunder smile during a game against the Dallas Mavericks (Photo by Zach Beeker/NBAE via Getty Images) /

The Point God is also a King!

Of the Thunder 42 wins this season, 29 have come during the last five minutes of games when the score is within five points and 24 of those wins have come since Thanksgiving.

Virtually any article or statistical spreadsheet with information on clutch time showcases just how dominant this OKC Thunder team is.

There are several factors that point to the Thunder’s clutch time success. The trio of point guards who play in the closing minutes allows for a diversity of ball handlers, playmakers, and scorers to be on the floor simultaneously.

Clutch Time Kings altered Thunder identity in one season. light. Related Story

The Thunder trademark defensive commitment remains intact with all five clutch time players (even Gallinari) defensively capable regardless if opponents force them to switch, playing man to man or employ a zone.  Plus, Billy Donovan finally has stars and entire lineups who’ll not only listen but employ his systems.

But, would OKC be the Clutch Time Killers if it wasn’t for the presence of the Clutch Time King? Sure, it takes all five members to make everything function effortlessly. However, it’s CP3 that brings incredible basketball I.Q., swagger, and no fear at taking over in the clutch in whatever manner will net the Thunder the win.

Paul’s ranking in clutch time is almost imperceivable for a 35-year old.

  • Scoring:  first with 146 points
  • Field goals made: first with 46
  • Steals: first (tied with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander) with 10
  • Free throws made: second with 45
  • Net Differential: third with a plus +109 and ranking behind Dennis Schroder and SGA

I’d argue the team would still be performing well but without Paul, it’s highly unlikely they achieve the dominant position they have in this crucial segment of games.

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