Parker gives up on free agency, returns to Cavs

INDEPENDENCE, Ohio -- No one is expecting Anthony Parker to make the All-Star team. He may not even return to his role as the Cavaliers starting shooting guard. But Parker is officially back, and as far as the Cavs are concerned, he will serve an important function. He will again be relied upon as a solid backcourt defender, occasional perimeter shooter and forever professional leader. Parker had been an unrestricted free agent until Monday, when he signed a one-year deal following a brief courting period from other teams. He told FOX Sports Ohio the free agency process was difficult and stressful not normal. So reaching a deal with the Cavs provided Parker a sense of relief, a return to the life he was used to. A few other topics Parker addressed in a chat with FSO: On re-signing with the Cavs: My mind was on training camp. It was a different feeling knowing that everyone else had come back (from the lockout) and I wasnt here. I knew I didnt want this to be a process that dragged out, because its not really one I enjoyed. Im glad they wanted me back and Im glad to be here. On the additions of not just rookies Kyrie Irving and Tristan Thompson, but the returns of veterans Antawn Jamison and Anderson Varejao from injuries: First, Im hearing great things about Kyrie. I cant wait to see him for myself and be on the same floor. Tristan was a nice addition too, as was Omri (Casspi). Im also anxious to see some of the younger guys from last season -- Samardo (Samuels) and Manny (Harris), those guys could really help us. And, yeah, having Antawn and Andy healthy wont do anything but help. On his overall impressions of the team: Its going to be a challenge, probably at first, anyway. Thats OK, because thats the way it always is when you have a lot of young guys. But it will also be exciting, I think, with everyone healthy and some talented additions. Cavs Notes This is Parkers third season with the team. He averaged 8.3 points per game last season, but shot 39 percent from the field, his worst since his rookie season with Philadelphia (1997-98). Cavs GM Chris Grant on Parker: Bringing back Anthony was a high priority for us. We place great value on the leadership, professionalism and veteran presence he brings both on the court and in the locker room. Baron Davis left the team to receive a second opinion on his stiffening back. Davis, a prime candidate for the leagues amnesty clause, may never return. The Cavs have until Friday to make a decision on Davis, but all signs point toward him getting waived. Casspi sat out practice after bumping knees with Luke Harangody on Sunday. Casspi could be out a couple days but should be available for Fridays preseason game at Detroit.