Where Erick Dampier Wants To Floor Tony Parker
April 21st, 2009 at 12:00 pmBy Chris
After stealing Game 1 against the Spurs, the Dallas Mavericks allowed Tony Parker and crew to knock them around the court last night, to the tune of 105-84. Most, if not all of the Spurs’ damage was provided by Tony Parker, who could very well be the fastest Frenchman, maybe ever. Parker so thoroughly dominated the Mavericks — 38 points and 8 assists — he’s got their defenders talking about using alternative means to stop him; means like knocking Parker to the floor (via the Dallas Morning News):
“Parker got into the teeth of our defense and caused problems,” he said. “Every time he drives the lane, we have to put him on his back. The first foul has to tell him he;s in for a long night.
“My first foul Thursday night is going to put him on his back. I guarantee it.”
I’m not sure if sending him to the foul line — or perhaps even accruing a bunch of intentional fouls is going to help. If these were the Detroit Pistons/Boston Celtics days, Dampier could knock Parker around all he wanted, but with today’s “protect the offensive player” rules, Dallas’ center will only find himself sitting on the bench sooner, rather than later.
And Tony Parker will continue to penetrate the Mavericks defense at will.
