Friday Bolts – 7.26.13

Zach Harper of CBSSports.com on team needs: “The need for a wing scorer isn’t even a shot at the fallout of the James Harden trade for the Oklahoma City Thunder. They did what they felt they needed to do and looked like they were primed for a second straight NBA Finals appearance before Russell Westbrook’s knee went down in the first round. If Jeremy Lamb is ready to step forward and assume some responsibility in the scoring department without disrupting the flow of the team, then the Thunder are probably set there. If not, they could go out and look for someone in a trade because the options on the free agent market are not eye-catching.”

Jonathan Hartzell of NBA.com: “Westbrook underwent surgery on his right knee in late May after he tore his lateral meniscus during the first round playoff series against the Houston Rockets. The recovery time initially called for Westbrook to be back for the beginning of the 2013-14 season. Based on the amount of recent videos of Westbrook dancing, it would appear he will be ready. ETA: It would take an unlikely setback for Westbrook not to be ready by training camp. But don’t be surprised if this injury inititally diminishes Westbrook’s level of play.”

Downtown OKC is getting another tower.

Kyle Weidie for TrueHoop on the voice of Summer League: “Some in the crowd wonder if Brett Salap will ever shut up. Most accept that he’s part of an eclectic scene in Las Vegas. His sideline antics are met with curious smiles, quizzical looks and, sometimes, annoyed expressions. But the NBA junkies quickly fall in love. A dad tells his son to get a photo with him. “This guy knows everything!” Salap has attended every single Las Vegas Summer League since 2004. For most in attendance, summer league is a stop on the line, a step in the process, a window of opportunity. For Salap, it’s the only place where he can truly feel comfortable watching the game he loves, and since the beginning, his act has always been the same.”

What’s your favorite basketball shot?

Kevin Pelton of ESPN Insider lists his top remaining free agents: “A month removed from playing a starring role at times in the NBA Finals, Neal is looking to cash in after playing three seasons in San Antonio for the minimum. By signing Marco Belinelli, the Spurs made it clear that they won’t match an offer to the restricted free agent, who is the best long-range threat left on the market. Neal is more of a volume scorer than a specialist, and he’s got some ability to play point guard, too.”