Tony Parker saw his role change for the first time since joining the San Antonio Spurs in 2001. Dejounte Murray, the organization’s first-round pick in 2016, took over the starting point guard role in the second half of the 2017-18 season, pushing Parker to the bench; he remained there for the rest of the campaign and the 2018 playoffs.
With San Antonio’s postseason run over, Parker’s future officially sits in the balance. His contract expires at the start of the NBA’s New Year, making him a free agent.
However, after Tuesday’s Game 5 loss to the Golden State Warriors, Parker said he wants to return for another season and “would be okay” backing up Murray, according to NBA TV and TNT’s David Aldridge.