Paultz began his professional journey when he was drafted by the San Diego Rockets in the 7th round of the 1970 NBA Draft. However, he chose to start his career in the ABA with the Virginia Squires. Shortly after, he was traded to the New York Nets, where he would spend a significant portion of his career. During his time with the Nets, Paultz became known for his rebounding and shot-blocking abilities. He played a crucial role in helping the team secure the ABA Championship in 1974, alongside stars like Julius Erving.
In the ABA, Paultz was selected as an All-Star three times, in 1973, 1975, and 1976, showcasing his abilities among the league's best. His performance in the ABA was marked by his consistent scoring and defensive presence, which made him a valuable asset to his teams.
Following the ABA-NBA merger in 1976, Paultz continued his career in the NBA. He stayed with the Nets for a short period before being traded to the San Antonio Spurs. With the Spurs, Paultz continued to be a dependable center, contributing to the team's playoff runs during his tenure. His ability to adapt to the NBA's style of play allowed him to maintain his role as a solid contributor on the court.
Paultz later played for the Houston Rockets, where he continued to provide veteran leadership and experience. His time with the Rockets included a trip to the NBA Finals in 1981, where the team faced the Boston Celtics. Although the Rockets did not win the championship, Paultz's presence was felt throughout the series.
Towards the end of his career, Paultz had brief stints with the Atlanta Hawks and the Utah Jazz. Despite the changes in teams, he remained a respected player known for his work ethic and understanding of the game. Over his career, Paultz accumulated over 13,000 points and 8,000 rebounds, demonstrating his effectiveness as a center.
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