Charlotte Hornets: 3 reasons Tony Parker is a good addition
1. Tony Parker can be a leader and mentor
Tony Parker has an impressive resume as a 17-year veteran of the NBA:
- 2001-02 All-Rookie team
- Six-time All-Star
- Four-time All-NBA team selection
- Four-time NBA champion (2003, 2005, 2007, 2014)
- 2007 NBA Finals MVP
While Tony Parker does not fit the mold of the modern-day elite-shooting point guard, he can still bring a lot to the table that can’t be measured on the court and give James Borrego a player that he can fully trust, according to the Charlotte Observer:
"“We’ve identified a player for our roster who can really help us grow, take that next step: credibility, accountability, wisdom, experience,” said Borrego, who was an assistant with the San Antonio Spurs for much of Parker’s 17 seasons there."
Tony Parker was hurt during the Spurs’ 2016-17 playoff run when he ruptured his quadriceps, but still played in 55 games last season. Even though he struggled at times, he will still playing with high intensity.
"“The biggest thing for Tony, coming off a major injury, [was] the fact that he was even playing for us and playing at such a high level,” Borrego said. “The fact that he wanted to come back, prove to himself, to his team and to his coaches that he could come back from this injury and help our team. The credit goes to Tony in how hard he worked.”"
Parker’s attitude should have a ripple effect on the Charlotte Hornets. He already has a relationship with Nicolas Batum and should be able to provide a spark in Kemba Walker’s game.
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The Hornets will be relying on young players such as Graham, Cody Zeller and Miles Bridges as well, and Parker should be able to provide advice and wisdom on dealing with the rigors of the NBA.