While Parker has proven to be a quick study, his opponents are now doing their homework as well. In the past six games Parker has averaged 8.7 points, 4.3 assists and 3.2 turnovers, a noticeable dropoff from the 13.8 points, 5.4 assists and 2.0 turnovers he averaged in his first eight games as the Spurs' starting point guard.

"It's just like what happens to everybody in their first year," said Terry Porter, who has recently replaced Parker on the floor during tight games. "Normally, in the first four or five games you're able to get some easy opportunities because teams haven't been able to feel out your strong points. But people watch film and they've adjusted to some of his strengths. Now it's his turn to adjust his game."

No longer surprised by Parker's quickness, most opponents are dropping back to prevent him from penetrating off the pick-and-roll. With his scoring almost exclusively limited to 3-pointers or drives to the basket, Parker is now trying to develop a mid-range jumper.

"I shoot the three or I penetrate," Parker said, "but I have no middle."