Daigneault Taps Chris Paul for Chet’s Thunder Growth
Coach Mark Daigneault consistently emphasizes a long-term vision for the Oklahoma City Thunder, focusing on player development and establishing a winning culture. This philosophy recently highlighted a surprising yet impactful figure from Thunder past: Chris Paul, whose approach and leadership during his single season in OKC are now being pointed to as an ideal example for young cornerstone Chet Holmgren. This strategy underscores the team’s commitment to cultivating not just skilled players, but complete professionals ready to lead the franchise.
The Enduring Impact of Chris Paul’s OKC Stint
Chris Paul’s 2019-20 season with the Thunder was an unexpected gift to Oklahoma City. Acquired in a trade that signaled a full-scale rebuild, many expected CP3 to be an expiring asset. Instead, he embraced the role, leading a young Thunder squad to the playoffs and becoming a mentor to emerging stars like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Daigneault vividly remembers Paul’s professionalism, his meticulous preparation, and his unparalleled ability to elevate teammates through his leadership and basketball IQ. Paul’s presence instilled a standard of excellence and competitive fire that resonated throughout the locker room, proving that even in a rebuilding year, process and approach matter deeply.
Chet Holmgren: A New Era’s Foundation
Chet Holmgren represents the future of the Thunder. After missing his rookie season due to injury, Holmgren has demonstrated flashes of his unique two-way potential, combining elite rim protection with a versatile offensive game. The challenge for Chet, as with any young star, extends beyond refining his skills; it involves developing the mental fortitude, leadership qualities, and consistent professional habits required to anchor a contending team. Daigneault sees Paul’s example as crucial for Holmgren in this developmental phase, focusing on how CP3 carried himself, approached every practice and game, and consistently made his teammates better.
Applying the “Point God” Mindset to Chet
The parallel Daigneault draws isn’t about duplicating Chris Paul’s playing style for Chet, but rather internalizing his professional ethos. Paul was known for his relentless pursuit of perfection, his vocal leadership, and his ability to command respect through his work ethic and strategic understanding of the game. For Holmgren, this translates to:
- Leadership by Example: Understanding how to guide a team both on and off the court, through performance and communication.
- Elite Preparation: Adopting a meticulous approach to fitness, film study, and game planning.
- Team Elevation: Learning to make impactful plays that directly contribute to team success, fostering chemistry and trust among teammates.
- Mental Toughness: Developing the resilience to navigate the highs and lows of an NBA season, maintaining focus and intensity.
Implications for the Thunder’s Future
This focus on an internal standard, exemplified by a past star, bodes well for the Thunder’s long-term aspirations. By using Chris Paul as a blueprint for professional conduct and leadership, Daigneault is actively shaping Chet Holmgren into a more complete player and a foundational leader for the franchise. This isn’t just about individual growth; it’s about embedding a culture of accountability and excellence that can sustain a championship contender. For OKC fans, it means watching Holmgren evolve not just statistically, but also as a guiding force on the court, much like Paul was during his memorable season here.
What to Watch Next
Thunder fans should keenly observe how Chet Holmgren integrates these lessons into his game and presence. Look for signs of increased vocal leadership, enhanced court generalship, and a consistent level of intensity and composure, especially in crucial moments. His ability to guide the offense, make smart defensive reads, and inspire his teammates will be key indicators of his growth in embodying the “Chris Paul standard” Daigneault is promoting.
| Quality | Chris Paul’s Example (2019-20 OKC) | Chet Holmgren’s Developmental Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Leadership Style | Vocal, demanding, floor general | Absorb, grow into a commanding presence |
| Professionalism | Meticulous preparation, consistent performance | Cultivate elite habits, maximize potential |
| Team Impact | Elevated young talent, orchestrated offense | Anchor defense, facilitate offense, build chemistry |
| Mental Approach | Relentless competitor, strategic thinker | Develop resilience, maintain composure |
FAQs
- Why Chris Paul specifically, given his short tenure?
Paul’s single season in OKC left an indelible mark on the team’s young core and coaching staff due to his exemplary professionalism, leadership, and ability to elevate those around him, despite being on a rebuilding squad. - Does this mean Daigneault wants Chet to be a point guard?
No, the comparison is not about playing style or position. It’s about Chris Paul’s mindset, leadership, preparation, and overall approach to the game that Daigneault wants Chet to emulate. - How will this impact Chet’s offensive development?
While not directly about specific offensive sets, developing a “Point God” mentality can improve Chet’s decision-making, court vision, and ability to impact the game beyond scoring, making him a more well-rounded offensive threat. - Is it fair to put this kind of pressure on a young player like Chet?
Daigneault’s approach is about guidance and aspiration, not immediate expectation for a full transformation. It provides a clear, high standard for Holmgren to work towards as he matures into a franchise cornerstone.
For Thunder fans, embracing Daigneault’s long-term vision means recognizing that building a championship contender is about more than just talent; it’s about instilling a culture where players like Chet Holmgren can learn from the very best examples to become not just great players, but great leaders for our city’s team.
Daigneault taps Chris Paul as Chet Holmgren example
