Thunder: Gregg Popovich compliments Chris Paul's leadership

Oklahoma City's Chris Paul, left, defends San Antonio's LaMarcus Aldridge during Tuesday night's game at Chesapeake Energy Arena. San Antonio beat the Thunder 114-106. [Bryan Terry/The Oklahoman]Spurs coach Gregg Popovich was his typical ornery self Tuesday. When he was asked about Chris Paul before the game, Popovich interrupted the question.

“I hate Chris Paul,” Popovich deadpanned.

But everything Popovich proceeded to say about Paul was at the highest level of admiration.

“If a young player can understand what Chris Paul can give them, then it’s a huge boon to his career,” Popovich said. “Chris is an alpha. He’s a natural leader. He takes no prisoners. He suffers no fools. He’s there to…