Chris Paul
The Point God who put New Orleans basketball on the map.
Chris Paul, known universally as 'CP3', is an American professional basketball guard who became a defining figure in New Orleans Hornets history during his tenure from 2005 to 2011. Drafted by the Hornets, he immediately elevated the franchise's profile, transforming them into consistent playoff contenders and establishing himself as the face of the team during their most competitive era prior to the current generation.
- Role
- Point Guard
- Affiliation
- New Orleans Hornets
- Tenure
- 2005–2011 (traded before the 2011-12 season; played no games for the team that season)
- Status
- Franchise Icon / Traded to Los Angeles Clippers in 2011
- Key Achievement
- Led team to franchise-best 56 wins (2007-08) and MVP runner-up
- Legacy Record
- All-time leader in assists and steals for the Hornets/Pelicans franchise
Lore & Background
His tenure was defined by a fierce rivalry with teams like the San Antonio Spurs and Dallas Mavericks, but also by an emotional bond with the Crescent City. The 2011 trade to the Los Angeles Clippers remains one of the most contentious moments in team history, yet Paul's impact on the franchise's identity is undeniable. He holds numerous single-season records for assists and steals, cementing his legacy as the greatest player to ever wear the Hornets jersey.
In Their Own Story
The air inside the Smoothie King Center was thick with humidity and anticipation during a late-game fourth quarter in 2014. With seconds ticking down on the clock, Chris Paul dribbled near half-court, eyes locked on the defense. He didn't need to score; he needed to orchestrate. A sharp crossover froze his defender, followed by a no-look pass that sliced through traffic to an open shooter. The net swished as the buzzer sounded, and the roar of the crowd washed over him—a testament to the magic CP3 brought to New Orleans.
Reader's Guide
Chris Paul's statistical dominance in New Orleans set high bars for future guards. Below are key milestones achieved during his tenure.
| Season | Wins | Assists/Game | Steals/Game | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | 2013-14 | 55 | 9.6 | 2.0 | | 2014-15 | 48 | 9.7 | 2.2 |
His 2013-14 campaign remains the franchise's best single-season win total at the time of his departure. Paul also recorded over 1,000 assists in multiple seasons with the team, a feat unmatched by any other Pelicans player.
Did You Know?
- Chris Paul led the league in assists while averaging double-digit points and assists in 2008, a feat accomplished by several other NBA greats—but his Pelicans tenure was defined purely by playmaking dominance.
- He holds the franchise record for most assists in a single season (925 in 2007-08), showcasing incredible playmaking during his peak years.
- Paul's jersey number 3 is highly revered by fans, often seen worn on merchandise even after he left the team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Chris Paul?
Chris Paul, widely known as CP3, was a professional basketball guard who played for the New Orleans Pelicans from 2011 to 2017. He arrived via trade from the Los Angeles Clippers and quickly became the face of the franchise during that era.
What role did he play on the court?
Operating as a Point Guard, Paul was instrumental in controlling the game's pace and distributing the ball effectively. His leadership transformed the team into consistent playoff contenders shortly after his arrival.
How does his story end with the Pelicans?
After six seasons of defining success, he departed the organization in 2017 to pursue new opportunities elsewhere. Despite leaving, he remains a revered figure and franchise icon within the New Orleans community.
Why is Chris Paul important to the team's history?
He elevated the Pelicans' profile significantly by leading them to 56 wins during the 2013-14 season, their best performance at that time. His impact established a competitive standard for future generations of players following his tenure.
What records does he hold?
Chris Paul stands as the all-time leader in both assists and steals for the New Orleans Pelicans franchise. These statistical achievements cement his legacy as one of the most impactful guards to ever wear the uniform.