Spurs could be without Kawhi until 2018 as Parker returns in December

The Spurs have been without two of their key players to start the NBA season and it sounds like San Antonio are going to have to wait a bit longer before seeing Kawhi Leonard and Tony Parker play.

Spurs coach Gregg Popovich gave an update on both of his star players on Tuesday and it was not particularly good news for Leonard, who has missed 10 games due to a quad injury.

Popovich said the two-time All-Star forward is “just coming along more slowly” than expected in the rehabilitation process.

“It’s just been more difficult for him to get through the rehab routine,” Popovich said, according to ESPN.

The Spurs still have not placed a time frame on Leonard’s recovery, but the team has said his team-mate Parker is expected to return to the lineup in December.

Parker underwent surgery during the offseason to repair a ruptured left quadriceps tendon, but he has spent time practicing with the team’s G League affiliate.

Popovich was optimistic with his progress, saying Parker is “going in the right direction”.

“[Leonard’s] body hasn’t reacted the same way as Tony’s,” Popovich said.

“Tony’s at the point where he’s been going five-on-five and that kind of thing. He’s not totally confident. It’ll be a few more weeks. But he’s definitely going in the right direction. And so is Kawhi. It’s just taking a little bit longer.”