Why Could the 2007 Finals MVP Be a Great Addition to the Hornets Coaching Staff?

After losing their top assistant coach to the New York Knicks, the Charlotte Hornets are looking for someone to fill that role. They did bring in Will Weaver as an advisor, but having someone else on the staff who has played in the NBA will help provide insight into game-time situations and situational awareness for Charles Lee. One person they should consider is the long-time Spurs point guard and former Hornet, Tony Parker. The Frenchman has made his intentions clear that he wants to become a head coach in this league one day, and the Queen City could be the perfect opportunity for him to test the waters as an assistant coach before possibly having an opportunity to be a head coach in the league. Parker has the Hall-of-Fame resume and the respect amongst league circles that he could make the transition to being a coach in the NBA.

It did help that Parker spent the majority of his career being coached by Gregg Popovich, and his guidance and teachings were instrumental in Parker becoming a six-time all-star. Being able to pass on the teachings and guidance he learned from his coach would be instrumental in passing it on to the young players on the Hornets roster, such as LaMelo Ball. Parker does have an in with the Hornets, as he spent his last season in the NBA in the Queen City before retiring in 2019. He has remained connected to the game since then, as he has been the president of the LDLC ASVEL, a team that competes in the highest league in French basketball. While there, Parker showed his knack for finding good talent and helping in the development of players in France.

Those talents could be used in Charlotte as the team is currently in its second year in Coach Lee’s system. Parker can use his basketball smarts to help develop the offense, and he can also provide a connection to the other French players on the team, including Moussa Diabate and Tidjane Salaun. These two promising and developing talents for the Hornets could benefit from the guidance of the Hall-of-Fame guard and fellow Frenchman, who had to navigate the highs and lows of the NBA. Having Tony Parker in Charlotte would be beneficial for both the players and the head coach as the team looks to take the next step in its development as an organization. He can help develop the offense and serve as a mentor to other players. Having him on the coaching staff could benefit the Hornets in the long run as the team works to change the culture in Charlotte.