Chris Paul
The engine behind New Orleans' resurgence during the defining CP3 era with the Hornets.
The Chris Paul era represents one of the most significant chapters in New Orleans basketball history, beginning when the franchise drafted him as the fourth overall pick in 2005. "CP3" immediately became the face of the rebuilding Hornets, bringing elite playmaking and leadership to the New Orleans Arena.
His tenure defined the franchise's identity before the transition to the Pelicans brand in 2013, though Paul himself was traded to the Los Angeles Clippers in 2011 and never played for the Pelicans. While his time with the club ended before a championship was secured, Paul's impact on fan engagement and offensive structure remains legendary among supporters who lived through that era of growth.
- Tenure
- 2005–2011
- Position
- Point Guard
- Jersey Number
- 3
- Team Names
- Hornets
- Role
- Franchise Leader
- Status
- Former Player
Lore & Background
Chris Paul arrived in New Orleans when the franchise needed a heartbeat. His selection in the 2005 NBA Draft was viewed as a monumental moment, signaling that the city was finally ready for superstar talent after years of instability following Hurricane Katrina and relocation. He quickly became synonymous with the team's identity, known for his clutch performances and intense competitiveness.
During his stay, Paul navigated the complex dynamics of the NBA landscape while anchoring a young roster. He was traded to the Clippers in 2011, before the drafting of Anthony Davis in 2012, so the two never played together in New Orleans. Even when injuries slowed him down later in his tenure, his presence commanded respect from opponents and fans alike, cementing his status as a local icon.
In Their Own Story
The roar inside the Smoothie King Center was deafening as the clock ticked under ten seconds. Paul dribbled near half-court, eyes locked on the rim, feeling the weight of the city on his shoulders. He drove left, drew two defenders, and kicked it out to the corner. The shot rose through the net just as the buzzer sounded, sealing a victory that kept playoff hopes alive for another night.
Reader's Guide
The Chris Paul era began with a blockbuster trade in November 2011, bringing the veteran point guard from Los Angeles directly to New Orleans. His arrival signaled a major shift toward contention for the franchise still recovering from Hurricane Katrina and previous relocation struggles. During his tenure, the team transitioned its branding from Hornets to Pelicans in 2013, marking a new identity that Paul embodied as the face of the city's basketball resurgence.
Paul led the squad to consistent playoff appearances, establishing himself as the primary engine for offense and leadership on the court. His partnership with Anthony Davis formed one of the most exciting duos in the NBA during the mid-2010s, drawing massive crowds to the Smoothie King Center night after night. However, injuries eventually took their toll on his durability, leading to a trade deadline departure in February 2017.
His legacy remains distinct from later eras, defined by stability and star power that helped rebuild fan trust within the community. While he did not secure a championship title during his stay with the organization, his impact on the franchise's culture was profound, leaving a void that subsequent rosters struggled to fill immediately after his exit.
Did You Know?
- Paul wore jersey number three throughout his entire tenure in New Orleans.
- He was selected as an NBA All-Star multiple times while playing for the Hornets.
- He was drafted by the Hornets in 2005 and traded to the Clippers in 2011, before Anthony Davis was drafted.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Chris Paul play for New Orleans?
He arrived via trade in late 2011 and remained with the franchise until 2017. This period covered his time as a Hornet before the team officially became the Pelicans.
What was Chris Paul's primary role on the roster?
Wearing jersey number 3, he acted as the point guard and immediate face of the rebuilding organization. His elite playmaking defined the offensive structure for several seasons.
How did the team identity change during his tenure?
Chris Paul's time bridged the gap between the Hornets era and the new Pelicans brand established in 2013. He provided stability while the franchise underwent this significant rebranding process.
Why is the Chris Paul era considered legendary locally?
His leadership drove a major resurgence in fan engagement and on-court performance for New Orleans basketball. Although he did not win a championship there, his impact remains highly revered by supporters.
How did his time with the franchise conclude?
His tenure ended before a title was secured, marking the close of one of the most significant chapters in club history. He left behind a legacy as the engine behind the team's rise to contention.