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By Nick Loris

Tim Duncan is bound to be one of the top ten players to ever play the game and probably the best power forward of all time. Tony Parker has made the jump to superstar status. A legitimate MVP candidate, Parker single-handedly carried the Spurs the second half the season, and it was fun to watch.

But it’s clear (and obvious to most readers here) that if the Spurs want to win another title, they need Manu healthy. They came close last year with number 20 at 70 percent. While I had much higher hopes this year even without him healthy, it was simply no contest. The past two years the Spurs have had very good teams and while other teams are continually getting better, I believed the Spurs were a legitimate title contender with the Big Three healthy.

Despite Manu’s disregard for his health to do anything to win, he’s remained relatively healthy during his tenure as a Spur. Until recently. I was becoming concerned Ginobili, who’d be a top scorer and number one option on most NBA teams, was going to end his career the way the Grant Hill’s (also until recently) have been: plagued by injuries and “what ifs”.

But Manu’s insane block on Dwayne Wade leaves me very optimistic. He’ll be 32 in July. For reference, Kobe will be 31 in August. The play reminded me of how gritty, energetic, athletic and downright good Manu is. Tim Duncan is my favorite player. He always will be. But Manu is the guy I trust most with the ball in his hands at the end of the game. He’s a proven winner and an unbelievable competitor. As I said, other teams in the league are getting better so it’s possible the Spurs will need other additions. But here’s to wishing a healthy 2009-10 season to Manu and the team. Go Spurs.