C. Paul: "I love LA!"

Special guest on this week’s Tony Parker Show, Chris Paul talks about the All Star Game and the Clippers. CP3 is happy to be in Los Angeles and thinks his new team is ready to win an NBA championship.

How was your weekend? Do you still enjoy the All Star Game?

The weekend was great, I was blessed with the opportunity to play with Tony Parker! It was amazing! More seriously, I always look forward to the All Star Game, you have the opportunity to see your friends and talk to them, which you can’t always do during the season. It’s a blessing to have this type of break.

You played five years in New Orleans. Now, you’re with the Clippers. How do you like your new team? And do you think you and Blake Griffin can be as good as Stockton and Malone?

I love my new team. Of course, there is an adjustment period. But I love LA and the fans are truly amazing. As for Stockton and Malone, I don’t think there will be another dynamic duo like that. Those two are in their own class. Me and Blake, we are just trying to do our thing.

Do you think your team is good enough to win a championship?

Yes we are. We have the pieces, but it will take a lot of hard work and determination. We have to make sure we peak at the right time. 

In your opinion, is our days the toughest era for point guards ?

I definitely think it is. When I came in as a rookie, it was already tough, even at that time. I would go against Steve Nash on Monday night, Tony Parker on Tuesday night, Baron Davis on Wednesday night and Allen iverson on Friday night. Now, the point guard field is even deeper than it was then. It's clearly the toughest position. 

Are you going to play in the Olympics this summer? And what do you remember of your gold medal in 2008?

I hope to play in London of course! The biggest memory I have for '08 is standing on the plateform, receiving my gold medal and looking out in the crowd, seeing the tears in my mother's and father’s eyes. 

Can the 2012 team be as good as the Dream Team?

Yes I think so. But I’ve learned to never compare these type of teams. The '92 Olympic team was special. It was a different era. In 2008, I think we were really good, but 2012 has the opportunity to be even better than '08 was.

Who are your top 5 players in the history of the NBA, position by position?

Tough question… I’d go with Magic or Isiah at the point. At the 2, Michael Jordan. At the 3, George Gervin or Dr J. (Julius Erving). At the 4, Timmy (Tim Duncan) for sure! And at the center, Bill Russell. Because he’s so dominant and he’s a winner.

Last question, your thoughts about Blake Griffin?

He’s a freak of nature! The most athletic player I’ve ever seen. It’s exciting to play with him. He’s one of the best players I’ve ever played with…

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