Monday Bolts – 7.6.15
Jenni Carlson on markets and stars: “Now, much of the reason for that is the success that KD, Russ and their team has had on the court in recent years. Of course, you’ve got to have superb talent like Durant and Westbrook to win big in the NBA, but you also have to have a stellar franchise with competent leaders who can plan and adapt and develop. The Thunder has that. So, Durant and Westbrook have shown that if you are a great player in a top-notch organization, no matter where it is, you have a chance not only to win lots of games but also make lots of money. The networks will broadcast your games. The internet will buzz about your exploits. The attention will come.”
James Herbert of CBSSports.com: “He talked for 10 minutes and people are latching onto him saying you have to respect Aldridge for doing what was right for him without worrying about the reaction. Like he said, though, it’s the same as his comments about James going to Cleveland. None of it necessarily means Durant is planning to make an unpopular decision. He’s just supporting his fellow players.”
Serge Ibaka is back in Congo, and here are some great pictures.
Chris Reichart of Upside and Motor on a Thunder D-League great: “His offensive game — while less pronounced — also shows some polish. He is able to finish with either hand with an array of hook shots, up-and-under moves and he finishes strong with thunderous dunks once he’s in the clear. He displays a soft touch around the rim, leaving room to believe that an offensive repertoire can certainly be developed. He’s not a guy that’s going to step out and knock down 18-footers, though, as almost all of his damage is done in the paint. He shot a blistering 62 percent from the floor last season because he didn’t stray from this strength.”
If you missed it, Kevin Durant talked over the weekend.
Darnell Mayberry: “That’s no misprint. McGary says he’s actually lost close to 30 pounds since the end of last season. And the second-year Thunder forward is feeling how much of a difference the dropped weight has made. ‘I’m still trying to get used to the change,’ McGary said before cracking a sly smile. ‘I didn’t know I could jump this high.’ McGary credits the weight loss to cooking classes, a healthier diet and rigorous workouts. By eating better and transforming his body, McGary believes he’ll put himself in a better position to stay healthy and play the best basketball of his life.”
Tom Ziller of SB Nation on top free agents remaining: “Kanter was said to be discussing a deal near the post-rookie maximum with Oklahoma City, but there’s been little noise on that of late. The Thunder already locked Kyle Singler and watched the RFA they sent out in the Kanter deal — Reggie Jackson — take $80 million. It’s hard to see how Kanter has any leverage at this point. There isn’t a ton of cap space left out there. If OKC won’t concede on a max-ish deal, is he a candidate to sign the qualifying offer?”