Against the Rockets, he's averaging just nine points and seven rebounds per game on 38% shooting. Aldridge had a solid, if unremarkable regular season, but has faded in the playoffs. Factoring into the Spurs' reliance on Leonard has been the struggles of LaMarcus Aldridge, their star big man. This is a Spurs team that has been incredibly reliant on Leonard, and is going to need a smart game plan to build around him. Backup point guard Patty Mills, now a key figure in this Rockets series, will be a free agent this summer, as will 39-year-old Manu Ginobili, David Lee, center Dewayne Dedmon, and reserve wing Jonathon Simmons. Parker is 34 years old, with lots of miles on his legs from the Spurs' perennial playoff runs and his international experience, with one year left on his contract.Įlsewhere, the Spurs' roster is in flux. Parker's injury also raises questions about the Spurs' future quicker than some may have expected. Parker still does a lot of the Spurs' ball-handling, his penetration is key in opening up the offense and taking pressure of Kawhi Leonard, and his ability to knock down spot-up jump shots is crucial in making opponents who sag off of him pay.

Parker is no longer the Spurs' key star, as he was against the Miami Heat in the Spurs' back-to-back Finals runs in 20, but he's nonetheless a key figure. It's unwelcome news for a Spurs team that, despite the even series, seems to be at a disadvantage against the Rockets. On Thursday, the Spurs announced that Parker will miss the rest of the season with a ruptured quadriceps.

Parker had to be carried off the court and did not return. However, along the way, the Spurs also suffered a big setback when Tony Parker injured his leg on an awkward landing while attempting a floater. Account icon An icon in the shape of a person's head and shoulders.

Breathe by Sloan Parker