The latest news on Monday June 28th, 2010.
The hectic summer of 2010 is only days away, and every team is getting their pens and papers ready. The Lakers are also trying to persuade their coach to return, while designing a Plan B “in case.” They are also figuring out their roster and who to add or who to let go. It is very rare that a championship team loses their coach and multiple players, but it may just happen to this Lakers team.
News and updates on the Lakers.
Back in the day, Tracy McGrady and Kobe Bryant were the two most explosive offensive players in the NBA. In 2010, these guards may join forces on the same team. [Dime Magazine]
Kobe Bryant traveled to South Africa to watch the World Cup and he also hosted a soccer camp for teenagers at Soweto. [ESPN.com]
The Lakers world is still turning after the won their 16th NBA title. Assistant coach Brian Shaw will travel to Cleveland to meet with the Cavaliers; 6-4 guard Shannon Brown has opted out of his contract and will become a free agent. [LA Times]
Phil Jackson says that his decision will depend on his health and whether or not he can withstand the rigors of an 82 game season. [LA Times]
Many people have Byron Scott as the leading candidate for the Lakers’ coaching job, if Phil leaves. However, his success and the Lakers success are not guaranteed. The players may not mesh with Scott and his coaching methods may not work with the squad. [Silver Screen and Roll]
Shannon Brown’s agent stated that his client will opt out of his contract, “In search of a new deal.” Brown may re-sign with the Lakers, or may not. This is a smart but a greedy move by the reserve guard. [Slam Magazine]
What had happened to George Karl last season is having a major effect on Phil’s retirement decision. [OC Register]
The Countdown to the summer of 2010: 2 days. The links include the latest news around the NBA.
For the New York Knick their “Plan B” of Joe Johnson and Amare Stoudemire, could be the key in acquiring LeBron James. [Pro Basketball Talk]
Chris Bosh is a very attractive free agent name, and the Heat are appearing as the front-runners to acquire him. [Pro Basketball Talk]
Joe Johnson was booed in his last game as a Hawk and it is very likely that he will leave, but don’t tell Al Horford that. [Yahoo Sports]
The Boston Celtics are looking to get even older by adding Brad Miller. [Slam Magazine]
The Houston Rockets have a fairly talented team, but they are trying to pursue Joe Johnson and Chris Bosh. [Slam Magazine]
The New Jersey Nets are not only going after LeBron James; they are trying to acquire many more big names. [ESPN New York]
Surprisingly, the New York Knicks are Joe Johnson’s top choice. [Slam Magazine]
The Nets long time manager Rod Thorn had decided to leave, but Jerry Colangelo may quickly replace him. [ESPN New York]
The Nets waived guard Keyon Dooling. [NBA.com]
The Dallas Mavericks are also pursuing Joe Johnson. [Pro Basketball Talk]
