Cavs Vs Spurs: Comparing ’15-16 Rosters
Nov 19, 2014; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Kyrie Irving (2) and San Antonio Spurs guard Tony Parker (9) stand near midcourt at Quicken Loans Arena. The Spurs won 92-90. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports
Point Guard
Kyrie Irving
Irving took the next step in his development last year when surrounded by James and Love. He showed off his ability to play off the ball, be a spot up shooter, hit big shots and take over games when needed. Even with the added talent, Irving averaged the second most points in his 4 year career, stepped up as a defender and still distributed the ball.
With 21.7 points per game, 5.2 assists, 3.2 rebounds and 1.5 steals, Irving’s all around game is clear in the statistics. His 21.57 PER was ranked 21st overall in the NBA and 4th among point guards according to ESPN.
Another year of experience with LeBron and Love, along with hopefully some health following knee surgery, Irving is set to continue his development. Continued development as a defender would also be big for the Cavs overall team defense.
Parker has been an elite point guard since his 2nd season in the NBA. The Frenchman has been an integral part of the Spurs dynasty. However the 14 year guard is 33 years old and is showing all the signs of aging. While he can still take over a game, he can’t do so as consistently as he once could.
Last year, in only 68 games, he hasn’t played more games since ’10-11 season, Parker averaged his 2nd worst in points (14.4) and assists (4.9). Parker’s numbers were the lowest since his rookie season. Never the best shooter, Parker hasn’t really developed a better deep stroke. He only took 1.3 three pointers last year.
Advantage
A few years ago, this could have been Parker but at this point, Irving is clearly better than Parker. He is more athletic, better shooter and about equal defenders. Parker’s leadership is off the charts but not enough to close the gap.
Cavs – 1 Spurs – 0
Next: Starting Shooting Guards