Spurs coach Mitch Johnson makes his feelings clear on Chris Paul stepping up in Gregg Popovich's absence

During the offseason, the San Antonio Spurs signed Chris Paul to be a mentor for their young roster. As the team deals with a rocky off-court situation, interim coach Mitch Johnson has praised the former All-Star for his efforts.

Dating back to November, Spurs coach Gregg Popovich has been away from the team due to medical reasons. This has left Johnson to step up in his absence at the age of 38. To put that into perspective, he is a year younger than Paul.

During a recent media availability, Johnson opened up on how beneficial it's been for the Spurs to have someone like Chris Paul around. He praised the longtime point guard for his efforts and the way he approaches the game.

“A lot of us have competed against him. We've all watched him and to be able to experience it first-hand is a privilege,” Johnson said.

“We are witnessing greatness. He's still doing it at a high, high level. We are grateful for that.”

Paul has been tasked with being a leader on and off the court for the Spurs, a role that is nothing new for him. He continues to be a productive player at this late stage of his career, posting averages of 9.5 points, 4.1 rebounds and 8.4 assists.

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Chris Paul dishes season-high 14 assists in latest outing

There are many ways Chris Paul aids Mitch Johnson as he navigates coaching the Spurs. That said, the biggest thing he provides is a tremendously high basketball IQ. Having been in the league for almost two decades now, it's like Johnson has another assistant coach on the floor.

While Paul isn't the scorer he once was, he's still capable of playmaking at a high level. He proved this over the weekend against the Minnesota Timberwolves, handing out a season-high 14 assists in a nail-biting loss.

Having an offensive maestro like Chris Paul at point guard makes life easier for Johnson and the rest of the Spurs. He has simplified their offensive attack, resulting in easy looks for everyone around him. One player who has benefited the most from Paul's presence is emerging star Victor Wembanyama.

This outing marked the 12th time this season Paul has recorded double-digit assists in a game. An impressive feat for a 39-year-old at the end of his career. Paul continues to prove to the basketball world that he is one of the best ever to play the position.

Dealing with the Popovich situation likely hasn't been easy for Johnson and the Spurs, but having someone like Paul around has definitely softened the blow.