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
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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San Antonio Spurs
May 1, 2017; San Antonio, TX, USA; San Antonio Spurs center Dewayne Dedmon (3) dunks the ball as Houston Rockets power forward Ryan Anderson (3) looks on during the second half in game one of the second round of the 2017 NBA Playoffs at AT&T Center. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports /

Starting Dedmon

In Game 2, we saw Pau Gasol inserted into the starting lineup over David Lee. While Gasol starting at center instead of Lee was a success, Parker’s injury could result in Gasol headed back to the bench.

With Patty Mills or Manu Ginobili likely inserted into the starting lineup, the production of the second unit could drop considerably. Having Gasol headline that group would provide a scoring option for when Kawhi Leonard or LaMarcus Aldridge sit.

The Spurs’ best bet to move into the starting center role is Dewayne Dedmon. His length, energy and defensive mindset are a better match for the lob-catching Clint Capela than Lee. Lee’s scoring and passing would also be well-served in the second unit with a playmaker now becoming a starter.