CP3 is the Real Deal

Man, Chris Paul is no joke. He's like a bigger, stronger Steve Nash. Paul is very much like a quick, powerful, running back in that he dishes out almost as much physical punishment on opposing defenses as they dish out on him. Jordan Farmar and Derek Fisher will certainly be sore tomorrow. The only thing Paul really needs to add to his game at this point is a more consistent outside shot. If he gets that he will immediately become one of the most unstoppable players in the league. With Peja and David West supporting him, the Hornets have a chance to be a much improved team. Like the Lakers (and every other team in the league), the key for Hornets is going to be staying healthy.

I can never decide who the better player is between Deron Williams and Chris Paul. I think Paul has the higher ceiling, but Williams is probably the better player right now. I personally would have taken Deron Williams with the first pick in the 2005 draft. Williams is bigger stronger, and a better shooter. He's not as quick as Paul, but he is still pretty tough to handle off the dribble. Like Paul, he dishes out a lot of punishment when heading to the basket. Williams is more of a half court player than Paul, but he can also play the running game. Williams is also a better defensive player. But I don't really see where Williams can get that much better. He's pretty much as good as he is going to get. Paul still has so many gaps to fill. If his jumper and defense reach the level I eventually expect, he'll end up a better player than Williams. Either way, I think they both are in perfect situations. Williams is the better of the two for Utah's half court sets, and Paul is the better of the two for New Orleans running style. Anyhow, I'm hoping that both the Hornets and Jazz get matched up in a first round playoff match up so that we can see these two go head to head and settle this debate once and for all.