Tony Parker Will Still Be a Factor

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3) Experience:

• Championships are won when experience, talent, and execution come together. The Spurs will be in the mix with all three, especially when Parker returns. He is a proven winner and champion, showing his grit by battling back from his leg injury earlier than expected. Once thought to be sidelined until February reports now suggest that he could be ready go in the month of November. This has to be sweet music to Spurs organization and have them optimistic that he will indeed return to form.

2) Guard Leadership:

• The Spurs have younger and faster guards than Parker these days but they can’t seem to run the team as smoothly. Even Patty Mills doesn’t run it as smoothly as one would like. Parker knows the system and it is evident out there on the court and his instincts are invaluable. This is something the Spurs will especially need during the season and in the playoffs.

1) Scoring:

• People forget how well Parker was playing in the playoffs last year--he was on fire and playing better in the postseason than he has in years. He was averaging about 16 ppg and shooting a blazing 53% from the field. He also  shot 58% from behind the arc. He was looking good before his freak quad injury occurred, so look for him to rebound and rebound well. He has the ability to boost this team, even at 35 years of age...so don’t forget about him. He is still out here and still hungry.