Phoenix Suns Media Day Takeaways: Chris Paul’s Wrist is All Healed
Chris Paul looked slightly uncomfortable during several occasions amidst Phoenix’s previous postseason run, including the team’s NBA Finals bout with the Milwaukee Bucks. After the Suns eventually lost out and ended their season, Paul underwent wrist surgery, proving that he indeed fell victim to the injury bug once more during the championship series.
Chris Paul is here at NBA Summer League for the Lakers-Suns game tonight. He has a brace on his left wrist after having surgery after the Finals. pic.twitter.com/Z1JmOWSC7R
— Jovan Buha (@jovanbuha) August 9, 2021
With such a quick turnaround for Phoenix between last season and this new one, Paul’s health felt like a serious concern coming into media day. However, he quickly put to bed any indications that he might not feel 100 percent.
James Jones joked that Chris Paul is "always a full go," which, true, but said CP3 is fully cleared after the surgery he had on his wrist.
— Kellan Olson (@KellanOlson) September 27, 2021
As a player moving beyond his prime, Paul’s heath remains something to monitor as the season progresses. But at this point, the Suns must feel pleased with his offseason work to come back strong even with such little time to do so.
Paul re-signed with the Suns for one reason and one reason alone: to win those extra two games next year and secure a championship. Phoenix needs Paul just as much though, especially if they want to make good on their Western Conference title defense.
Bringing a tough, winning-mentality to the team, the importance of CP3’s presence on this team cannot go overstated. His mentorship which helped several Suns players elevate their games allowed him to creep his way into MVP conversations, even despite averaging his second fewest points per game since his final years with the New Orleans Pelicans (then Hornets).
As someone clearly too important to ever sweep their injury concerns under the rug, Paul thankfully addressed the matter openly, and gave everyone the news they wanted to hear.