“Chris Paul is better when he starts,” Thompson said. “And it’s hard to look now, through this stretch of games and say they’re not better when Chris Paul is better.” Paul has started all four games since Green’s suspension, averaging 14.2 points, 8.7 assists, and 2.2 steals per game and shooting 61% from three-point range (13/21) in those contests.

“To me, it’s more valuable to Steph, to Klay, for Chris Paul to start the game,” Thompson continued.

Starter Chris Paul = Super Small Ball?

If Chris Paul stays in the staring five long-term, then another Warriors player will be forced into a bench role. “It’s gotta be Looney at this point,” Thompson said when asked who CP3 would replace in the lineup.

The Warriors starting five of Curry, Thompson, Wiggins, Green, and Looney has been one of the NBA’s most dominant lineups in previous seasons, so breaking up that group would be a risk. But a risk might be necessary with Golden State currently playing below its full capabilities.

A Curry, Paul, Thompson, Wiggins, Green lineup is ultra small. Even with Draymond Green remaining one of the league’s most versatile defenders, him matching up with true centers at the onset of each game might lead to some tough defensive matchups for the Dubs.

Thompson also added that Chris Paul “Can’t just be the Kuminga whisperer,” referring to Paul’s ability to get the most out of his teammates.