Tony Parker expects Tim Duncan to return

San Antonio Spurs point guard Tony Parker believes that Tim Duncan will return next year and help the franchise defend their title.

The 38-year-old holds a player option to return next season and said during the Finals win over the Miami Heat that he would continue to play provided that he was still effective.

"It will come to an end, but I don't think next year. I think everybody's gonna come back," Parker said, ESPN reports.

Duncan averaged 15.1 points and 9.7 rebounds during the regular season, and was slightly better during the run to the championship after being well rested throughout the year.