5 Adjustments for San Antonio Spurs without Tony Parker

San Antonio Spurs: 5 Adjustments to make with Tony Parker out

May 3, 2017; San Antonio, TX, USA; San Antonio Spurs point guard Tony Parker (9) is helped off the court after being injured against the Houston Rockets during the second half in game two of the second round of the 2017 NBA Playoffs at AT&T Center. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports /

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May 3, 2017; San Antonio, TX, USA; San Antonio Spurs shooting guard Manu Ginobili (20) battles for a rebound with Houston Rockets point guard Patrick Beverley (behind) and Eric Gordon (10) during the second half in game two of the second round of the 2017 NBA Playoffs at AT&T Center. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports /

Ginobili Making Plays

When we think of Manu Ginobili we think of him slashing to the basket or contorting his body for a reverse layup first. A secondary thought that comes to mind, though, is his playmaking ability. Ginobili’s passing IQ combined with his experience in the Spurs offense could make him a suitable option in Parker’s absence.

Ginobili is averaging just 15.4 minutes in these playoffs, but that will need to change without Parker. His presence in lineups could create a calming effect for a team that just lost one of their leaders. He also provides a similar skillset to Parker in that he can get into the paint and create for himself or others.

While Mills is technically Parker’s backup and may be able to provide more minutes, points AND defense than Ginobili, Manu would provide continuity for the starters with his similar experience and playing style to Parker.