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Duncan staying in San Antonio to help with Aldridge's rehab

Sam Forencich / National Basketball Association / Getty

San Antonio Spurs assistant coach and former franchise star Tim Duncan won't join the team in Orlando for the NBA's return this month, the team announced, according to The New York Times' Marc Stein.

Instead, the pending Hall of Fame inductee will remain in San Antonio to assist with LaMarcus Aldridge's rehabilitation from injury. The seven-time All-Star underwent surgery on his right shoulder in April and was ruled out for the remainder of the season in June.

Duncan was a frequent visitor to Spurs practices and team events since he retired from playing in 2016, and he officially joined Gregg Popovich's coaching staff this season. He's effectively been Popovich's lead assistant.

The 44-year-old twice served as acting head coach this season. The first instance came when Popovich was ejected from a game against the Portland Trail Blazers, and the second was for one contest in early March - a 104-103 victory over the Charlotte Hornets - when the veteran bench boss was away due to a personal matter.

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