Minnesota Timberwolves SG Pat Beverley went on ESPN’s First Take yesterday afternoon and fired at Phoenix Suns PG Chris Paul. Paul is undeniably a future Hall of Famer; however, he had a despicable series against the Dallas Mavericks, Luka Doncic in particular. In the 2021 regular season, Chris Paul averaged 14.7 points, 10.8 assists, and 4 rebounds according to ESPN. However, in the Maverick series, he performed below his normal averages. The Suns won the first two games and then shortly after began to decline.
The Suns do deserve all the criticism they receive until next season, simply, because of their expectations for the season. However, Beverley shouldn’t be the one pointing the finger and violating Paul’s legacy either. He made some good points regarding Paul’s defensive abilities and decision-making.
“The Suns should’ve benched Chris Paul!” said Beverley. “CP can’t guard nobody man. Everybody in the NBA knows that. … He’s a cone. … Give him the Ben Simmons slander.”
Where did this beef begin?
Last season, Beverley played with the Los Angeles Clippers and met the Phoenix Suns in the playoffs. He torched Pat Beverley and the Clippers, ultimately, resulting in an altercation as the Clippers’ season was coming to an end in an elimination game. Beverley seemed to be walking by Paul and some words were uttered which led to the violent shove by Beverley.
Patrick Beverley was ejected after shoving Chris Paul from behind. pic.twitter.com/z0GFL1tb6J
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) July 1, 2021
In conclusion, the notion Chris Paul is not one of the all-time greats in the NBA would be preposterous to say. However, nobody should above criticism and close analysis. Paul didn’t play well by any means but the claims made to tarnish his legacy were a bit below the belt. These two will face off in the upcoming season and it’s only fair to assume this game will be extremely personal between the Phoenix Suns and the Minnesota Timberwolves.
I was not the only person who shared this sentiment, former NBA player Matt Barnes, commented on the situation as well. He explained, how he’s a much better player than they both ever were and people should respect him for the work he’s put in. The 17-year veteran PG will arguably go down in history as one of the greatest PGs this league has ever seen. Paul’s a 12-time All-Star, 6-time stealing champion, 4-time assist champion, 10-time All-NBA, 2012-13 MVP, and much more. Not to mention, the impact he’s left on the game of basketball.
matt barnes just came for patrick beverley 😭🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/8siQqJ0Az4
— Zach Aldridge (@wzaldridge) May 16, 2022
Next season, will be very interesting between Chris Paul and Pat Beverley, to say the least.
