Chris Paul etched his name deeper into NBA history, surpassing Jason Kidd for second place on the league’s all-time steals leaderboard. The veteran guard reached the milestone with a signature defensive play, stripping Devin Booker late in the first quarter. It’s another testament to Paul’s longevity and defensive brilliance in his 20th NBA season.
With 2,685 career steals, Paul now trails only John Stockton, whose staggering 3,265 steals remain the gold standard. Stockton’s record is considered untouchable, but Paul’s climb up the rankings cements his legacy as one of the game’s all-time great defenders.
This is the second time this season Paul has leapfrogged Kidd on an all-time list. In December, he overtook the Hall of Famer for second place in career assists, another category long dominated by Stockton. Paul’s combination of vision and defensive instincts has made him a generational talent.
A six-time league leader in steals, Paul has been a defensive force throughout his career. His nine All-Defensive Team selections, including seven First-Team nods, place him among the elite. He is also one of only 17 players in NBA history to average at least two steals per game, a feat achieved by legends like Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and Clyde Drexler.
At 38, Paul continues to make an impact, proving that defensive excellence isn’t just about athleticism but intelligence and anticipation. While Stockton’s record may be out of reach, Paul’s place among the greatest defensive guards is unquestionable.
