Chris Paul Bursts into Exclusive 5k Assist Club, and Fast

On a night in which small forwards reigned supreme, point guard Chris Paul made history by joining the 5,000 assist club. Poetically, this came against Paul's former team, as the Los Angeles Clippers defeated the New Orleans Hornets by a score of 93-77.

This marks the Clippers' 11th consecutive victory.

According to ESPN Stats & Info, CP3 is the fifth-fastest player in NBA history to reach 5,000 assists. Only Oscar Robertson, Magic Johnson, John Stockton and Isiah Thomas did it faster.

How much more will it take for Paul to solidify his status as a Hall of Famer?

"

Chris Paul: 5th-fastest (510 games) to reach 5K assists, according to Elias (Big O, Magic, Stockton, Isiah)

— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) December 20, 2012"

As for the age factor, Arash Markazi of ESPN Los Angeles provides statistics that reflect just how significant an achievement this is.

"

Chris Paul (27) is 3rd youngest player to get 5,000 assists, behind Magic Johnson and Isaiah Thomas.

— Arash Markazi (@ArashMarkazi) December 20, 2012"

For the game, Paul finished with 10 points, 12 assists, five rebounds and one steal in 28 minutes. It was his third double-double in his past four games.

It was his 243rd career double-double.

As for how his achievement is being received, one of Paul's Team USA teammates offered up some high praise on Twitter. A very special teammate, at that.

"

Congrats to my bro @cp3 on reaching 5k assist tonight. True PG and leader!!

— LeBron James (@KingJames) December 20, 2012"

Perhaps we can shift the "King" moniker to Paul for an evening.