Following Chris Paul’s announcement that he will retire after the 2025-26 NBA season, a debate has ignited around the Chris Paul top point guard debate and where he ranks among the greatest point guards in NBA history. Despite his long and successful career, former NBA player Kendrick Perkins recently expressed a controversial opinion on Paul’s standing among elite point guards.
Kendrick Perkins Challenges Chris Paul’s Ranking Above Russell Westbrook
Kendrick Perkins, an NBA champion with the Boston Celtics who competed against Chris Paul during their careers, shared his perspective on Paul’s legacy. While he acknowledges Chris Paul’s impact on multiple franchises, Perkins argues that Paul should not be considered a top 10 point guard and certainly not ranked above Russell Westbrook.
Perkins underscored Paul’s ability to elevate teams, noting the transformations at New Orleans, the Clippers, and Phoenix during Paul’s tenure. However, he emphasized that ranking players requires more than team success—it also requires individual accolades.
I do not have him in my top 10,
Perkins said. I don’t have CP3 ranked above Russell Westbrook. Did CP3 do a lot of things change the franchise, you know, win a lot of games and things? Yes, absolutely. I would never take that away from him. Since he was drafted with the New Orleans Pelicans, he changed that franchise.
He added,
And when I say accolades, yes, championships or finals MVP, obviously, but CP3 don’t have one MVP. And I’m not trying to be critical of him. I’m not trying to downplay his career.
Although Paul has earned 12 All-Star appearances and been named to 11 All-NBA teams, he has never secured an MVP award or a championship ring—both of which Westbrook has achieved. These distinctions play a significant role in Perkins’ evaluation.
Perkins Places Chris Paul in Top 15 but Outside the Elite Top 10
Despite the critique, Perkins showed respect for Paul’s career and influence on the game, recalling their early days competing in the AAU system. He stated that Paul is deserving of Hall of Fame induction and recognized his lasting impact on basketball.
You know, CP3, the point guard, we came out of high school together,
Perkins said.
I battled against him in the AAU system as a youngster. Much love, much respect. He’s going to be a Hall of Fame. He just top 15 greatest point guards of all time in my eyes. He’s not in the top 10.
Chris Paul currently plays for the Los Angeles Clippers and remains in pursuit of an NBA championship before his retirement. Fans eagerly watch to see if Paul will secure the elusive title that could alter opinions like Perkins’ and reshape the conversation surrounding his place in NBA history.