NBA News: Spurs Coach Popovich Reiterates Patty Mills' Importance To The Team

San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich reiterated how important of a role sidelined guard Patty Mills play in his rotation.

The sweet-shooting Australian helped Pop win his fifth title last season, hitting big shot after big shot during the playoffs.

He underwent a shoulder repair surgery in July and could be unavailable for six to seven months from time of procedure.

When asked if fellow stringer Cory Joseph can accomplish Mills' role in the team, Popovich immediately answered "No."

"Cory's different," he elaborated.

"Cory will give us other things, but he's a different player than Patty. We're going to miss Patty's scoring but Cory's gotten better in that regard, he's a tough defender, a heck of a competitor and he'll do everything he can to keep us going."

Joseph received an increase in game time during the 2012-13 campaign, but has gone back to being third in the pecking order since the emergence of Mills.

At any rate, Mills can be rest assured that Pop will not be calling his number anytime soon, as the latter would want his charge to be in top form before he could graze the hardwood.

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