Chandler Parsons playing well, finding groove at right time

Chandler Parsons is the most versatile offensive weapon on the Mavericks’ roster. That’s something we’ve known. At 6’10” the fourth-year forward is able to stretch the floor with his outside shooting, use his athleticism on the fast break, handle the rock to create for himself and others in the half court, and is an underrated distributor for someone his size.

But while we’ve known what Parsons is capable of, it’s been a rather up-and-down season for the first year Maverick. The good news is that Parsons seems to be putting it all together at an opportune time, and best of all, finally finding a groove working with Rajon Rondo.

His offensive repertoire was on full display against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Monday. In the first quarter alone Parsons hit a three trailing on the fast break off of a pass from Rondo, ran the floor to get himself a lay-up in transition and free throws in the same manner shortly thereafter, then hit a catch-and-shoot three-pointer from the corner, again from Rondo. Check out his highlights from the game, one in which he scored in just about every way imaginable.

Since returning from an ankle injury that kept him sidelined for seven, gut-wrenching games, Parsons has lit it up. He’s averaging 20.5 points on 61% shooting from the floor and 60% accuracy from three-point range in four games.

Dallas’ offensive rating in those four games since his return has been 115.7 and the team is 3-1. Not only has Parsons played well, but his presence has made things easier for his teammates. In the seven games Parsons missed Monta Ellis shot 38% from the field. He’s averaging 21.5 points on 49% shooting since. Dirk Nowitzki shot 36% from three-point range in those seven games, but is connecting on 50% of his attempts with Parsons back in the lineup.

Getting a scorer back and having it positively affect his teammates is no revelation, but that isn’t the point. The point is that after months of watching the Mavericks desperately trying to figure things out offensively with a new point guard they’re finally starting to put it together and Parsons is a big reason why. The praise isn’t his alone. Rondo has played much better since Rick Carlisle handed him the keys to the offense, and the resurgence of Ellis likely has a lot to do with his hip finally feeling better. I suppose Parsons’ footwear deserves some attention, too. But his impact, no matter what’s on his feet at game time, shouldn’t be overlooked. Our own Ace Feltman surmised as much last week.

It wasn’t too long ago that fans were experiencing some serious buyer’s remorse about Parsons’ signing. Don’t hear that much anymore. Now that he seems to have found his place within the offense the detractors may be forced to remain silent for the foreseeable future.

Next: By the Numbers: Mavs Edge Thunder at Home

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