Toronto Raptors: Top five small forwards in franchise history

Anthony Parker

When thinking of the all-timers of a franchise, Anthony Parker is not exactly the first name that comes to mind. But when comparing Parker’s resume against the other members of this list, it’s clear he belongs.

Parker had an unusual path to Toronto. He was drafted by the New Jersey Nets after four years at Bradley University. Not exactly an NCAA powerhouse. He “played” in the NBA for three seasons, rarely seeing the court during that time. Over the course of three years, Parker played in just 55 games, receiving just 384 minutes.

As many players do, Parker decided to go overseas. After playing in Israel for six seasons, Parker made a comeback at the age of 31, returning to the Toronto Raptors.

He was instant difference maker. In his first season back on this side of the Atlantic, Parker started in all 73 games he was healthy for, averaged 12.4 points per game with great efficiency, and was perhaps the second best player on the third seed in the Eastern Conference.

His next two seasons, Parker gave Toronto more of the same. Over the course of his career with Toronto, Parker scored just under 12 points per game, was a 42.4-percent three-point shooter, and gave Toronto solid defense each year.

Parker’s game certainly isn’t blowing anyone away, but he gave Toronto three years of solid play at the small forward/shooting guard position.