Before tonight’s game against the Pacers, Jim Boylen and John Paxson were asked about how they plan to replace Justin Holiday’s minutes.
Boylen explained that rookie Chandler Hutchison will take his starting spot, and Paxson mentioned that Ryan Arcidiacono and Shaq Harrison, who forced Cam Payne out of town, have earned more time.
Paxson was then asked if the team gave up too early on Jabari Parker at SF.
“That’s all in the past. We’re not even going to worry about that. With the situation the way it is, we’ll look and see if Jabari gets an opportunity.”
That’s slightly more encouraging than Boylen’s recent comments that more or less called out Parker for a lack of effort. When asked about the coaching staff’s handling of the Parker situation, Paxson left the door open for Jabari to make a return to the rotation.
Jabari is a really good guy. You guys have been around him. He’s a terrific person. If we can acclimate him back into things, he’s going to get a chance. This league is about getting chances, even for players who have been through what Jabari has been through.”
Following those comments, Parker saw his first game action in weeks tonight, playing 14 minutes. He performed poorly, scoring just four points on eight shots, but at least he was on the floor.
Bobby Portis is expected to return to the lineup any day now, but with rumors that Robin Lopez will be on the move shortly, there will be an open frontcourt rotation spot. It would probably be wise to just hand that spot to Parker. It’s the least embarrassing scenario for all involved.
