After Sunday’s 33-point, 14-assist effort, Chris Paul’s 18-game playoff averages stand at 22.5 and 11.2.

“Just as a player,” said Hornets backup point guard Jarrett Jack, one of Paul’s best friends. “You marvel at the ability he has.”

Paul’s career playoff totals for points and assists exceed those of Magic Johnson (19.5 points, 12.3 assists), Oscar Robertson (22.2 points, 8.9 assists), Isiah Thomas (20.4 points, 8.9 assists), Jerry West (29.1 points, 6.3 assists), Michael Jordan (33.4 points, 5.7 assists), John Stockton (13.4 points, 10.1 assists), Bob Cousy (18.5 points, 8.6 assists), Kobe Bryant (25.6 points, 4.8 assists), and Larry Bird (23.8 points, 6.5 assists).