Today is Thunder media day, which is always great for non-answers, weird questions and a lot of non-news. I’m pumped. I’ll have a recap of some kind up this afternoon, but you can follow me on Twitter and I’ll have some stuff straight from the happenings.
Gabe Feldman of Grantland on David Stern: “We know Stern’s decision is bad for the Hornets, but is there an argument that he wasn’t allowed to do it? There’s no clear answer to these questions, and it is the first time they have been asked. But, from a legal perspective, here’s one reason why it’s problematic: Aside from the clear conflict of interest, it stinks of collusion.”
Matt Moore of HP on the latest Stern saga: “These failings raise questions about Stern’s overall competency. He’s old. He’s a notorious micro-manager consumed by putting out the right public message who couldn’t avoid this unnecessary mess. He’s said himself that he’s not long for the commissioner’s seat. But even as short-term leader of the Hornets, his job is to think about the long term. Though he does it with the grace of a three legged, geriatric pug, he seems to be doing his job.”
KD had to get glasses recently and here’s him in his new specs.
John Rohde on sharing: “Assists and turnovers have been stressed since the Thunder first convened at its new practice facility following the league’s 149-day lockout. A low assist total primarily suggests a lack of ball movement and/or selfishness. Naturally, Brooks is extremely fond of ball movement. There’s not a basketball coach worth a flip who doesn’t like good ball movement.”
KD’s new Nerf shoes are so hot the Nike store in New York is actually handing out wrist bands for them.
Scott Brooks on James Harden handling the ball more: “I think he will have his fair opportunity,” Brooks said. “I don’t know (about) more as a percentage or time-wise, but I expect him to make plays for us. He’s a terrific triple threat. He can shoot, he can drive and he can pass.”
Nate Drexler of Magic Basketball says James Harden is a player to watch: “I’ve tried to imagine a situation in the NBA today where a team would not love, and I mean love, having Harden on their squad. That’s really an understatement. I had a hard time thinking of a team where he wouldn’t make the starting five. Harden is a starter, and he’s one strong season away from making himself the apple of every team’s eye. He’ll be desirable, and in ways that many players are not. Take each of the aforementioned categories and bundle them up into one compounded by a year or so of development and you might have one of the most sought after guys in the league — and for good reason.”
