Category: Main Rumors

Blazers hesitant about moving CJ McCollum for Ben Simmons?

I’ve talked to people who say Portland’s been hesitant to move (CJ McCollum) for Ben Simmons because they think CJ is a better, more polished adult player than Ben Simmons, who was a bit of a mystery right now. Source: Spotify What’s the buzz on …

What’s the buzz on Twitter?

Keith Pompey @PompeyOnSixers
Doc Rivers considers Ben Simmons domino effects, including changes to the #Sixers’ starting lineup and defensive scheme inquirer.com/sixers/sixers-… via @phillyinquirer – 5:24 AM
Mike Richman @mikegrich
CJ McCollum Season preview: Best/worst cases + Expectations in 2021-22 youtu.be/oKQdEphiEfY – 2:08 AM
Aaron J. Fentress @AaronJFentress
Damian Lillard is all the way in, Jusuf Nurkic is in shape, CJ McCollum unfazed by trade talk and more takeaways from the start of Trail Blazers training camp.
Blazer Focused podcast with @Joe Freeman
oregonlive.com/podcasts/2021/… – 11:35 PM
Bobby Marks @BobbyMarks42
Around the NBA: Unvaccinated players, Ben Simmons and a complete breakdown of year 5 in the Michael Porter Jr. rookie max extension. instagram.com/tv/CUa-7Brl2RG… – 6:12 PM
Kurt Helin @basketballtalk
Ben Simmons latest: He wants offense built around him; Spurs got nowhere near trade nba.nbcsports.com/2021/09/29/ben… – 4:00 PM
Chris Broussard @Chris_Broussard
How should the Nets handle Kyrie’s vax hesitancy? Are the Cowboys better than we thought they were? A warning for Ben Simmons & more! Guests: @EphraimSalaam @RandyMueller_ @martinweiss
Catch us live weeknights 7-10p ET on @FoxSportsRadio & @iHeartRadio podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the… – 3:56 PM
Rich Hoffman @rich_hofmann
Danny Green on the prospect of taking on a bigger role defensively without Ben Simmons. pic.twitter.com/pScEql4HWA – 2:58 PM

Keith Pompey @PompeyOnSixers
Joel Embiid will be expected to do more on defense for the #Sixers with Ben Simmons set to leave town inquirer.com/sixers/sixers-… via @phillyinquirer – 2:19 PM
Nate Jones @JonesOnTheNBA
Context matters when analyzing most players in the NBA. I don’t know why that’s so difficult to for people to understand. Was on Randle island when most people thought I was nuts/overrating his potential. I’m in the same spot with Ben Simmons. 🤷🏽‍♂️ – 2:04 PM
Ryan McDonough @McDNBA
A Kyrie Irving for Ben Simmons trade would improve the Nets and 76ers – 1:42 PM
Zach Lowe @ZachLowe_NBA
ICYMI: Lowe Post podcast: @Sarah Kustok and I on the Nets, Kyrie, and Brooklyn’s outlook; then @Tim Bontemps and I on Ben Simmons, MPJ extension, and the defending champion Bucks:
Spotify: spoti.fi/3iakdCf
Apple: apple.co/3maYBXH – 1:30 PM
Aaron J. Fentress @AaronJFentress
Trail Blazers’ CJ McCollum, unfazed by trade rumors, seeks to replicate last season’s All-Star caliber start
McCollum was on fire before a foot injury derailed him. Now healthy and still hungry, @CJ McCollum is going to be a problem for opposing teams.
oregonlive.com/blazers/2021/0… – 12:57 PM
Keith Pompey @PompeyOnSixers
Joel Embiid will be expected to do more on defense for the Sixers with Ben Simmons set to leave town inquirer.com/sixers/sixers-… via @phillyinquirer – 12:42 PM
Michael Scotto @MikeAScotto
A look at the futures of Ben Simmons and Zion Williamson. Plus, Kyrie Irving, Bradley Beal, Andrew Wiggins, Jonathan Isaac, and whether Ja Morant, CJ McCollum and others can become All-Stars this season with colleague @Yossi Gozlan on the @Jorge Sierra podcast hoopshype.com/lists/podcast-… – 12:17 PM
Gina Mizell @ginamizell
This trio of Tyrese Maxey, Shake Milton and Seth Curry was working together at a basket following the Sixers’ first practice yesterday. Without Ben Simmons, that represented where the point guard situation currently stands.
More here: inquirer.com/sixers/76ers-p… pic.twitter.com/zVnUWxwyCC – 11:58 AM
Aaron J. Fentress @AaronJFentress
CJ McCollum draining corner threes while Damian Lillard meets with the media and talks about Jusuf Nurkic. #RipCity pic.twitter.com/nu6hike608 – 3:43 PM

CJ McCollum @CJMcCollum
Even when I’m constipated I still …. pic.twitter.com/CCaqLlT2W0 – 11:49 AM

CJ McCollum @CJMcCollum
I think it’s important we don’t lose sight of the fact that 90% of the league is vaccinated. Happy Monday. – 7:04 PM
Sean Highkin @highkin
CJ McCollum running through the new acquisitions: “I forgot about Tony Snell for a minute because he’s so quiet.” Having covered him in Chicago for three years, can confirm. – 3:20 PM
Sean Highkin @highkin
I asked new NBPA president CJ McCollum about players’ views on vaccination. “I see everything. I’m aware of everything. … There’s 450 players with 450 different mindsets. The biggest thing is trying to respect everyone’s opinion and educate them as best you can.” – 3:15 PM
Aaron J. Fentress @AaronJFentress
CJ McCollum said he was fine with the trade rumors and with some Blazers fans who want to see him moved. He said he has probably said the same things in the past about some of his friends on the Cleveland Browns. #QuoteoftheDay pic.twitter.com/xu3avHjjhx – 3:13 PM

Jamie Hudson @JamieHudsonNBCS
Blazers Media Day AND a new bottle of @CJ McCollum Heritage 91 secured, yesss 🙌 pic.twitter.com/t8CjdIokIr – 12:23 PM

More on this storyline

McCollum was once again asked to address the trade rumors, and as usual, the former Most Improved Player winner had a response that was far from definitive: “I think the same way I always do, man,” McCollum said with a smile, via NBC Sports Northwest. “I control what I can control – continue to work on my game, continue to take advantage of my summers, try to improve… And show up and do your job. “It’s going to be what it’s going to be at the end of the day. I’m happy in my situation. I’ve been able to continue to figure out ways to improve and help us make the playoffs eight straight years, six straight years as a starter and I look forward to the challenge of trying to get back to the playoffs this upcoming season.” -via Clutch Points / September 14, 2021
But it sounds like Portland is not actively shopping McCollum. I don’t know whether that is because Portland doesn’t agree with how teams value McCollum, or whether Neil Olshey is overly infatuated with him, but the general tone I’ve heard is the Blazers won’t move him just to have a different look next season. The trade has to make them better, and so far, other teams haven’t met that bar. -via The Athletic / August 8, 2021

No extension talks between Blazers, Anfernee Simons’ agent

The chance at a bigger role couldn’t come at a better time for Simons, as he is eligible for a rookie contract extension. A source said the Blazers and Simons’ agent, Bill Duffy, have not yet engaged in discussions, but are expected to closer to the …

The chance at a bigger role couldn’t come at a better time for Simons, as he is eligible for a rookie contract extension. A source said the Blazers and Simons’ agent, Bill Duffy, have not yet engaged in discussions, but are expected to closer to the Oct. 18 deadline. “I don’t know anything about the extension; I’m focused on the season,” Simons said. “I know it’s a big season for me. So I’m not worried about it. My priority is to go out there and play well.”
Source: Jason Quick @ The Athletic

What’s the buzz on Twitter?

Jason Quick @jwquick
After the first two days of practices, Anfernee Simons says he can feel it: his role on the Trail Blazers is changing.
“This is what I’ve been working for, waiting for … this moment,” Simons said. theathletic.com/2858217/2021/0… – 10:20 PM
Sean Highkin @highkin
Anfernee Simons #MuscleWatch: “Staying in the weight room, I had to fall in love with it. I actually enjoy it now. I’m pretty glad that I’ve grown up and gotten a little bigger.” – 4:17 PM

More on this storyline

Raptors still hoping to trade Goran Dragic

How long will Dragic be in Toronto? That remains to be seen. By all accounts, the team is still hoping to move him ahead of the trade deadline, extracting an asset or two from a club that’s gearing up for a title run. The odds of him being a Raptor …

How long will Dragic be in Toronto? That remains to be seen. By all accounts, the team is still hoping to move him ahead of the trade deadline, extracting an asset or two from a club that’s gearing up for a title run. The odds of him being a Raptor past February are low. Even still, there’s plenty that he can offer a young team like the Raptors.

Source: TSN

What’s the buzz on Twitter?

Ira Winderman @IraHeatBeat
From earlier: Kyle Lowry says he sought Goran Dragic permission for Heat No. 7, ‘out of straight respect’ sun-sentinel.com/sports/miami-h… – 5:16 PM
Anthony Chiang @Anthony_Chiang
Kyle Lowry says he asked Goran Dragic for No. 7 with the Heat ‘out of straight respect’ miamiherald.com/sports/nba/mia… And more stuff from Day 2 of training camp – 4:46 PM
Josh Lewenberg @JLew1050
Nurse spoke to Dragic shortly after the trade, never got the sense that he didn’t want to be here. NN says Goran has been amenable to whatever role they want to give him. “He’s been fantastic… Very enjoyable to talk to, he’s got a super high IQ, loves the game, competes to win” – 2:20 PM
Michael Grange @michaelgrange
Nick Nurse confirms: Goran Dragic won’t be playing for Raptors 905 this season. – 2:07 PM
Michael Grange @michaelgrange
Chris Boucher on Goran Dragic: ‘That’s a really good vet.’ – 1:50 PM
Anthony Chiang @Anthony_Chiang
NEW: Kyle Lowry says he asked Goran Dragic for No. 7 with the Heat ‘out of straight respect’ miamiherald.com/sports/nba/mia… And more stuff from Day 2 of training camp – 1:48 PM
Ira Winderman @IraHeatBeat
Kyle Lowry says he sought Goran Dragic permission for Heat No. 7, ‘out of straight respect’; Dragic now No. 1 in Toronto. sun-sentinel.com/sports/miami-h… “No other number means anything to me but seven.” – 1:27 PM
Anthony Chiang @Anthony_Chiang
Of calling Dragic to ask for No. 7 with the Heat, Lowry said today: “I just feel what he did here for this organization, and for me it’s just calling a friend and saying, ‘Listen, no disrespect. If that’s cool with you. No other number means anything to me but seven.'” – 1:11 PM
Shandel Richardson @ShandelRich
Nice move by former Heat guard Goran Dragic earlier this week #miamiheat si.com/nba/heat/miami… – 10:28 AM
Ryan Wolstat @WolstatSun
Goran Dragic > Kenny Anderson, Alonzo Mourning – 6:07 PM
Josh Lewenberg @JLew1050
Just had a chance to meet and chat with Goran Dragic. Very personable and professional guy. Knows he didn’t make the best first impression with Raps fans but genuinely feels bad about it and seems excited to be here now. I think people are really going to like him. – 1:24 PM
Michael Grange @michaelgrange
“He’s hilarious, he’s so funny … I really like him. He’s got a bright future” — Dragic on Scottie Barnes. – 12:02 PM
Eric Koreen @ekoreen
Asked who has impressed him, Dragic answers Scottie Barnes: “He’s funny. He’s hilarious. … I really like him. … He’s got a bright future, I can already see it.” – 12:01 PM
Aaron Rose @AaronBenRose
Dragic says Scottie Barnes is hilarious – 12:01 PM
Eric Smith @Eric__Smith
Goran Dragic says he chose to wear #1 over #7 because Kyle Lowry’s #7 will be in the rafters in Toronto one day. Plus he wore #1 before (when in Phoenix) & he had a good season. – 11:59 AM
Josh Lewenberg @JLew1050
Dragic will be wearing No. 1 with the Raptors. He said he was happy to give his friend and former teammate Kyle Lowry his blessing to wear No. 7 with Miami and never considered asking him to do the same, understands what Lowry means to the Raps franchise. – 11:58 AM
Josh Lewenberg @JLew1050
Goran Dragic says he’s been in Toronto for a couple weeks, getting to know the city and his new teammates. He’s looking forward to being a mentor to the younger guys, wants to do for them what Steve Nash did for him in Phoenix. pic.twitter.com/nZQoLz7uX6 – 11:54 AM

Aaron Rose @AaronBenRose
Dragic says he’s good friends with Kyle Lowry from their days in Houston – 11:53 AM
Eric Koreen @ekoreen
Goran Dragic is wearing number 1. – 11:51 AM
Ryan Wolstat @WolstatSun
Now it’s time for not a Dallas Maverick (yet at least) Goran Dragic. – 11:51 AM
Michael Grange @michaelgrange
‘He’s been a mentor, he’s showing he can still play … and we’re going to need some of that this year’ … Webster on Dragic – 10:11 AM
Aaron Rose @AaronBenRose
Bobby Webster says Goran Dragic has been a professional ever since the trade. – 10:10 AM

More on this storyline

The Raptors acquired Dragic in exchange for Lowry and his status with them has been reported as potentially headed towards a buyout. While Dragic is too talented to simply be waived, the Raptors will be hard-pressed to find a team eager to pay him $19 million this season. He could be headed towards a buyout if he’s still on the roster past thetrade deadline. Alternatively, he could be used as salary ballast as part of a larger deal and then subsequently bought out by his new team. -via HoopsHype / September 25, 2021

Kyrie Irving has little trade value around the league right now?

Chris Mannix: I was asking around a couple of teams, just for their opinion on the trade value of Kyrie Irving: it’s virtually zero. I mean, he makes $35 million this year, and he’s as unpredictable as you get. Source: Spotify What’s the buzz on …

Chris Mannix: I was asking around a couple of teams, just for their opinion on the trade value of Kyrie Irving: it’s virtually zero. I mean, he makes $35 million this year, and he’s as unpredictable as you get.

Source: Spotify

What’s the buzz on Twitter?

Jorge Sierra @hoopshype
How many games does Kyrie Irving play this season? – 10:40 AM
Jorge Sierra @hoopshype
Spanish president (and NBA fan) Pedro Sanchez talks about Kyrie Irving and Covid conspiracy theories at the Parliament.
Now I’ve seen it all.
pic.twitter.com/00RQoFIV7V – 8:20 AM
Brian Lewis @NYPost_Lewis
How #Nets feel about chances of getting Kyrie Irving, James Harden extensions done nypost.com/2021/09/28/how… via @nypostsports – 10:02 PM
Brian Lewis @NYPost_Lewis
Kyrie Irving shows up to training camp with #Nets status in flux nypost.com/2021/09/28/kyr… via @nypostsports – 8:10 PM
Jeff Goodman @GoodmanHoops
Doc Rivers + Ben Simmons’ Future & What’s Next For Kyrie Irving? | Bob Ryan & Jeff Goodman Podcast powered by @LinkedIn twitter.com/i/broadcasts/1… – 7:00 PM
Stefan Bondy @SBondyNYDN
Charles Oakley riffs on Knicks, Kyrie Irving’s vaccination and new cooking show nydailynews.com/sports/basketb… – 6:43 PM
Brian Lewis @NYPost_Lewis
I asked Steve Nash how worried he was at prospect of Kyrie missing some #Nets home games due to his vaccine stance. He said that wasnt his focus right now, camp was. “Things could change day to day in so many ways, as we saw last year. Right now, we’re just focused on camp.” #NBA – 5:04 PM
Alex Schiffer @Alex__Schiffer
Some notes from day one of Nets camp:
-Steve Nash thought LaMarcus Aldridge looked good. Didn’t know what to expect with his situation and liked what he saw. LA said he felt good, too.
-Cam Thomas can still score
-Nash didn’t get into the Kyrie situation – 4:39 PM
Ohm Youngmisuk @NotoriousOHM
Steve Nash remains optimistic about extensions for Kyrie Irving and James Harden. He also is asked about possibility of Irving missing practices and games when Nets return to New York. pic.twitter.com/YfvIdy26b5 – 4:34 PM
Brian Lewis @NYPost_Lewis
#Nets had their first day of camp. Elephant in the room, yes, Kyrie was here and practiced. They worked on everything, but defense was a top priority, getting the scheme down. – 4:30 PM
Tim Reynolds @ByTimReynolds
On a day where the NBA started practices, where vaccines are the hot topic, as LeBron revealed he’s been vaccinated, amid all the Kyrie blather, the big story is that THE LAKERS HAVE A PLAYER NICKNAMED HILLBILLY KOBE.
This is the best league in the world. Period. – 3:27 PM
Chris Sheridan @sheridanhoops
Talking Kyrie Irving of #Nets and COVID vaccine, #Jets, #Giants and all things NY Sports. PODCAST: open.spotify.com/episode/2zYV3m… – 3:18 PM
Adam Zagoria @AdamZagoria
You can already bet with @BovadaOfficial on how many games Kyrie Irving will miss this season over the Covid-19 regulations pic.twitter.com/jwN4uB028q – 3:14 PM

Wes Goldberg @wcgoldberg
it would be the most Kyrie Irving thing for him to have gotten the vaccine but say and act like he didn’t. – 1:59 PM
Marc Stein @TheSteinLine
Media Day Monday is meant to carry an upbeat spirit of renewal. Media Day 2021 certainly did not.
Delving into all the NBA latest with Zion Williamson, Ben Simmons, Kyrie Irving, Andrew Wiggins, Bradley Beal and more in my (free-to-all) Tuesday dispatch: marcstein.substack.com/p/true-case-of… – 1:57 PM
Howard Beck @HowardBeck
On the Crossover, @Chris Mannix and I tackle the Ben Simmons saga (again!), the Kyrie-Beal-Wiggins anti-vax vortex and Dame Lillard’s happiness in Portlandia.
Listen/subscribe: link.chtbl.com/crossover pic.twitter.com/MGqyj4o2Nw – 1:49 PM
Mike Trudell @LakersReporter
In terms of fit with Westbrook, LeBron said it may not be “peanut butter and jelly” from the jump on the court in terms of who does what, but LeBron feels he always figures it out. Regardless of former teammates (Wade, Kyrie, AD, etc.), he eventually gets to the right balance. – 1:26 PM
Alex Schiffer @Alex__Schiffer
From yesterday, inside a wild Nets media day starring Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, LaMarcus Aldridge and guest starring David Letterman. Subscribe now for 50 percent off: theathletic.com/2852816/2021/0… – 11:46 AM
Zach Lowe @ZachLowe_NBA
Lowe Post podcast: @Sarah Kustok on Nets media day, Kyrie, expectations for Brooklyn; then @Tim Bontemps + I on MPJ’s extension in Denver, the latest on Ben Simmons, and a preview of the defending champion Bucks:
Apple: apple.co/3maYBXH
Spotify: spoti.fi/3iakdCf – 11:32 AM
Brian Lewis @NYPost_Lewis
I’d say to look into the CBA. The bolded parts are the most relevant to the #Nets situation with Kyrie (and #Warriors with Wiggins, #Wizards w/ Beal, etc). #nba 👇🏾 pic.twitter.com/CEBeJmdW4b – 11:22 AM

Brian Lewis @NYPost_Lewis
For those curious if Kyrie would lose money if he misses games, the players’ union did successfully fight to keep the #NBA from imposing a vaccine mandate. But teams can fine players for missing practices and games. This bears watching for the #Nets who open camp later today. – 11:21 AM

More on this storyline

Kyrie Irving: A Puppet -via Twitter @KyrieIrving / September 15, 2021
Former Bleacher Report and Esquire editor Matt Sullivan dropped some bombs on Kyrie Irving on his podcast Celtics Lab, where he revealed the supposed rift between the star and the Brooklyn Nets – one large enough to consider a trade. “I’ve heard that Nets ownership was quite upset with Kyrie’s pause, especially that maskless party that turned his pseudo-paternity leave into more like a COVID suspension. And in the last week I’ve heard rumblings — whispers, really, because cracking the Nets is kind of like breaking into the Kremlin, that Brooklyn GM Sean Marks would maybe, possibly, apparently be willing to at least listen to a trade offer for Kyrie this offseason.” -via Clutch Points / July 5, 2021

No traction in Spurs-Sixers conversations about Ben Simmons

THE SPURS TALKED with the Philadelphia 76ers about Ben Simmons, but those talks have not gotten far, sources said. They sniffed around intriguing young free agents – including Lauri Markkanen and John Collins, sources said – but snared neither. …

THE SPURS TALKED with the Philadelphia 76ers about Ben Simmons, but those talks have not gotten far, sources said. They sniffed around intriguing young free agents — including Lauri Markkanen and John Collins, sources said — but snared neither.

Source: Zach Lowe @ ESPN

What’s the buzz on Twitter?

Keith Pompey @PompeyOnSixers
‘The Ben Simmons saga has a new twist… as expected ‘ by Locked On 76ers – Daily Podcast On The Philadelphia Sixers megaphone.link/LKN2013527427 #Sixers #NBA – 6:56 AM
Keith Pompey @PompeyOnSixers
‘You can’t blame the Ben Simmons saga on Philly being a tough place to play’ by Locked On 76ers – Daily Podcast On The Philadelphia Sixers #NBA megaphone.link/LKN5731843645 – 5:54 AM
Keith Pompey @PompeyOnSixers
‘You can’t blame the Ben Simmons saga on Philly being a tough place to play’ by Locked On 76ers – Daily Podcast On The Philadelphia Sixers megaphone.link/LKN5731843645 – 8:23 PM
Ky Carlin @Ky_Carlin
With Ben Simmons not with the team right now, Philadelphia will have to rely on others to handle the playmaking duties #Sixers sixerswire.usatoday.com/2021/09/28/six… via @SixersWire #NBA – 8:14 PM
Ky Carlin @Ky_Carlin
Another day, another Ben Simmons story in this saga. Doc Rivers reacted to the latest news when it comes to his All-Star. #Sixers sixerswire.usatoday.com/2021/09/28/six… via @SixersWire #NBA – 8:13 PM
Jeff Goodman @GoodmanHoops
Doc Rivers + Ben Simmons’ Future & What’s Next For Kyrie Irving? | Bob Ryan & Jeff Goodman Podcast powered by @LinkedIn twitter.com/i/broadcasts/1… – 7:00 PM
Kevin O’Connor @KevinOConnorNBA
New Mismatch with @Chris Vernon on Zion’s secret foot surgery and future, vaccines ruling media day, all the latest on Ben Simmons, MPJ’s max extension, John Wall weirdness, how the Lakers recruited Russell Westbrook, and much more. @ringer open.spotify.com/episode/4mzkfa… – 4:47 PM
Michael De Leon @mdeleon
The latest episode of the Spurscast is live with @Paul Garcia and @Josh810 discussing training camp questions, Manu’s return to the team and…Ben Simmons projectspurs.com/2021/09/28/spu… presented by @DraftKings #TBPN #GoSpursGo – 4:30 PM
Diamond Leung @diamond83
Donovan McNabb on WIP when asked about Ben Simmons: “Didn’t Carson (Wentz) do the same thing?” – 4:17 PM
Jake Fischer @JakeLFischer
We’re back on @thehalftimeapp, talking all things NBA media day, the latest on Ben Simmons and more. Join us: share.thehalftime.app/audio/A-295f5d… – 4:00 PM
Keith Pompey @PompeyOnSixers
Ben Simmons believes his pairing with Joel Embiid on the Sixers has ‘run its course’ inquirer.com/sixers/ben-sim… via @phillyinquirer – 3:48 PM
Keith Pompey @PompeyOnSixers
‘You can’t blame the Ben Simmons saga on Philly being a tough place to play’ by Locked On 76ers – Daily Podcast On The Philadelphia Sixers megaphone.link/LKN5731843645 – 3:46 PM
The Jump @_Talkin_NBA
Sixers ownership group is willing to “holdout and be stubborn” in regards to finding a good trade package for Ben Simmons 😬👀
h/t @Kendrick Perkins
#NBATwitter pic.twitter.com/H6h0pQGCUB – 3:28 PM
Kevin O’Connor @KevinOConnorNBA
New report on the Ben Simmons situation, potential timing for a trade, and details of his meeting with the Sixers, including how Doc Rivers had hoped to utilize Simmons in a Giannis-like role. @ringer theringer.com/nba/2021/9/28/… – 3:06 PM
Marc Stein @TheSteinLine
Media Day Monday is meant to carry an upbeat spirit of renewal. Media Day 2021 certainly did not.
Delving into all the NBA latest with Zion Williamson, Ben Simmons, Kyrie Irving, Andrew Wiggins, Bradley Beal and more in my (free-to-all) Tuesday dispatch: marcstein.substack.com/p/true-case-of… – 1:57 PM
Howard Beck @HowardBeck
On the Crossover, @Chris Mannix and I tackle the Ben Simmons saga (again!), the Kyrie-Beal-Wiggins anti-vax vortex and Dame Lillard’s happiness in Portlandia.
Listen/subscribe: link.chtbl.com/crossover pic.twitter.com/MGqyj4o2Nw – 1:49 PM
Tommy Beer @TommyBeer
Per @Basketball-Reference,
Ben Simmons is one of five players in NBA history to dish out more than 2,000 assists and grab more than 2,000 rebounds over his first four seasons in the league.
The other four players are:
LeBron James,
Oscar Roberston,
Grant Hill and
Magic Johnson – 1:47 PM
Noah Levick @NoahLevick
From Doc Rivers:
-Still expects Ben Simmons to be here at some point
-More players should feel free to push ball up court without him
-Second unit enjoyed playing with Niang, his shooting – 1:37 PM
John Gonzalez @JohnGonzalez
Don’t call it a comeback: @ChrisRyan77 on life after Ben Simmons for the Sixers
theringer.com/nba/2021/9/28/… – 1:23 PM
Chris Mannix @SIChrisMannix
NEW @TheCrossover Pod w/@Howard Beck: Running through a busy Media Day, from Kyrie’s status, the Sixers response to Ben Simmons, Damian Lillard, Zion’s injury, Porzingis’s position, more. Links: bit.ly/2w1G5e2 – 11:42 AM
Zach Lowe @ZachLowe_NBA
Lowe Post podcast: @Sarah Kustok on Nets media day, Kyrie, expectations for Brooklyn; then @Tim Bontemps + I on MPJ’s extension in Denver, the latest on Ben Simmons, and a preview of the defending champion Bucks:
Apple: apple.co/3maYBXH
Spotify: spoti.fi/3iakdCf – 11:32 AM
Kurt Helin @basketballtalk
Report: Ben Simmons no longer wants to play with 76ers star Joel Embiid nba.nbcsports.com/2021/09/28/rep… – 11:05 AM
Ky Carlin @Ky_Carlin
Ben Simmons has made it clear that the pairing with Joel Embiid has run its course #Sixers sixerswire.usatoday.com/2021/09/28/rep… via @SixersWire #NBA – 10:56 AM
Keith Pompey @PompeyOnSixers
Ben Simmons believes his pairing with Joel Embiid on the #Sixers has “run its course” inquirer.com/sixers/ben-sim… via @phillyinquirer – 10:53 AM

More on this storyline

Simmons believes his partnership with Embiid has run its course and it is another reason why he wants out from the team. After the team finished up practice on Tuesday, coach Doc Rivers brushed off the latest report. “I don’t have a reaction to that because Ben’s not here,” Riverstold reporters. “I do believe at some point, he will be and if he isn’t, you got another story. I don’t get caught up in that. Right now I’m going to focus on the guys that are on the floor. I think that’s more important.” -via Sixers Wire / September 29, 2021
Jon Krawczynski: (Sachin Gupta) absolutely is a fan of Ben Simmons. He was in Philadelphia when Ben Simmons first got there. I do think that overall, just the organization’s position is that Ben Simmons is a perfect fit for their roster for what they need and what Ben Simmons needs from a team around him. So I do think that they are going to continue to pursue Ben Simmons aggressively, I can’t say, you know, 100% that, you know, they’re in the driver’s seat, or it’s going to happen or anything like that. But I do know that the dismissal of Gersson Rosas has not poured any cold water on their pursuit of Simmons, they really think that he can be a difference maker. -via Spotify / September 29, 2021
Ramona Shelburne: Ben Simmons is willing to sit as long as it takes to. When you talk to people close to Ben, I say ,”Okay, worst-case scenario it takes all year. Would he sit all year?” And the answer right now is: “Yes.” -via YouTube / September 29, 2021

Contenders have already inquired about Thaddeus Young

Given roster turnover and their overall youth, I’m a little skeptical the Spurs will have an elite defense – as stingy overall as they were in the minutes DeRozan sat. A lot of those minutes came against backups, and San Antonio’s bench – long an …

Given roster turnover and their overall youth, I’m a little skeptical the Spurs will have an elite defense — as stingy overall as they were in the minutes DeRozan sat. A lot of those minutes came against backups, and San Antonio’s bench — long an efficiency machine — has been overhauled. Young seems like an obvious trade candidate; contenders have already inquired about him, sources said.
Source: Zach Lowe @ ESPN

What’s the buzz on Twitter?

Tom Orsborn @tom_orsborn
Jakob on Thad:
“The very 1st day he played in open gym, you could tell the difference. He happened to be on our team, and he just came in w/ a lot of energy & leadership. It was his 1st day there, but he kind of took over the team & told everybody where to go and how to set up.” – 2:46 PM
Tom Orsborn @tom_orsborn
Despite the uncertainty, Thad Young says he’s going to approach things as a pro:
“I am going to show up each and every day and make sure I am working, and make sure I am bringing the guys along and getting them better as well.” – 2:11 PM
Tom Orsborn @tom_orsborn
Thad Young on how sure he was going to stick here after the trade:
“I wasn’t sure at all. I wasn’t sure exactly what was going to happen. But me and Brian and Pop talked and whatever happens happens at this point”. – 2:10 PM
Tom Orsborn @tom_orsborn
Thad Young on #Spurs‘ depth:
“We have a lot of interchangeable lineups with a lot of interchangeable guys. The good thing is we can continue to throw bodies out there. We can continue to go hard for 48 minutes. I think that’s the biggest thing.” – 2:04 PM
Tom Orsborn @tom_orsborn
Thad Young on his new teammates:
“There are not any buttholes. They are a great group of guys. They all play for one another. They all come in to work each and every day, and you can see it, you can see that they want to win, that they want to be better.” – 1:56 PM
Tom Orsborn @tom_orsborn
Thad Young on his role:
“Just try to continue to do what I have done in the past for other teams, be an intangible guy, do all the little things that don’t show up on the stat sheet, and come to play every night.” – 1:47 PM

More on this storyline

 

The Suns are among the contenders who have pursued Spurs forward Thaddeus Young, sources said. San Antonio acquired Young in a sign-and-trade — along with a first-round pick and two second-round picks — and now are expected to receive strong interest in the veteran forward from competitive teams. Young averaged 12.1 points, 6.2 rebounds and 4.3 assists while playing in 68 games (23 starts) and shooting 55.9 percent from the field a season ago. -via The Athletic / August 30, 2021

 

Manu Ginobili considered a potential replacement for Gregg Popovich

The most common heir apparents mentioned in league and coaching circles today: Will Hardy, the longtime San Antonio assistant now working under Ime Udoka in Boston; Brett Brown; and Manu Ginobili, who rejoined San Antonio last week as an advisor. …

The most common heir apparents mentioned in league and coaching circles today: Will Hardy, the longtime San Antonio assistant now working under Ime Udoka in Boston; Brett Brown; and Manu Ginobili, who rejoined San Antonio last week as an advisor. Becky Hammon will and should be in the mix along with mystery candidates and perhaps other members of the Spurs tree. Ginobili’s appetite for coaching is unclear. Bill Self, head coach of Kansas, has faded out of the rumor mill.

Source: Zach Lowe @ ESPN

What’s the buzz on Twitter?

Michael De Leon @mdeleon
The latest episode of the Spurscast is live with @Paul Garcia and @Josh810 discussing training camp questions, Manu’s return to the team and…Ben Simmons projectspurs.com/2021/09/28/spu… presented by @DraftKings #TBPN #GoSpursGo – 4:30 PM
Tom Orsborn @tom_orsborn
Pop’s joke about Mani needing Manu out of the house was a good one, but hopefully what Lonnie said about stopping the spread of vaccine misinformation will help Spurs fans young and old. – 5:12 PM
RJ Marquez @KSATRJ
Manu and Pop reunited. Party like it’s 2003..2005…2007…2014. (📹@markmendez) #KSATsports #GoSpursGo #Spurs pic.twitter.com/PxvmK54y0m – 3:36 PM

RJ Marquez @KSATRJ
More Popovich on Manu Ginobili’s new role with the Spurs…“he’s going to do everything…help with management, coaching…probably figure out a 2-week trip to Italy, I might go with him”…Pop added it’s just great to have him back bc it’s Manu Ginobili. #KSATsports #GoSpursGo pic.twitter.com/CFYqjffyWL – 10:51 AM
RJ Marquez @KSATRJ
Popovich on why Manu returned to Spurs front office…”his wife needed him gone” #GoSpursGo #KSATsports pic.twitter.com/lAH4Abg6lP – 10:39 AM

Mike Finger @mikefinger
Popovich on how he got Manu to take a front office job:
“I’m not usually one to give up personal information. But his wife wanted him gone.” – 10:22 AM
Michael C. Wright @mikecwright
Pop said Manu Ginobili’s “wife wanted him gone” and that’s how he ended up on the staff. – 10:22 AM
Tom Orsborn @tom_orsborn
Pop on why Manu returned: “His wife needed him gone.” – 10:22 AM
RJ Marquez @KSATRJ
Manu Ginobili in the house for Spurs media day. Manu has returned to the franchise in a front office role, been named Special Advisor to Basketball Operations. #KSATsports #GoSpursGo pic.twitter.com/svS5TAG1x8 – 9:53 AM

More on this storyline

No one is sure if Popovich will coach beyond this season, but several sources who know him cautioned in recent weeks that it would not surprise them if he returned for 2022-23. Popovich is 26 wins from Don Nelson’s all-time record, but he is not running out the string just to claim it. -via ESPN / September 29, 2021
After 25 seasons in charge, 22 trips to the playoffs and those five titles, Popovich will naturally leave his post how and whenever he chooses. He has earned that right. Chances are we won’t hear from him on any topic until training camp begins, but it’s fair to say — with less than 40 days until camps open leaguewide — that there is far more chatter circulating about the Spurs’ attempts to barge their way into the Ben Simmons trade sweepstakes than Pop’s future. -via marcstein.substack.com / August 20, 2021

Wolves think they are the perfect team for Ben Simmons

Jon Krawczynski: (Sachin Gupta) absolutely is a fan of Ben Simmons. He was in Philadelphia when Ben Simmons first got there. I do think that overall, just the organization’s position is that Ben Simmons is a perfect fit for their roster for what …

Jon Krawczynski: (Sachin Gupta) absolutely is a fan of Ben Simmons. He was in Philadelphia when Ben Simmons first got there. I do think that overall, just the organization’s position is that Ben Simmons is a perfect fit for their roster for what they need and what Ben Simmons needs from a team around him. So I do think that they are going to continue to pursue Ben Simmons aggressively, I can’t say, you know, 100% that, you know, they’re in the driver’s seat, or it’s going to happen or anything like that. But I do know that the dismissal of Gersson Rosas has not poured any cold water on their pursuit of Simmons, they really think that he can be a difference maker.

Source: Spotify

What’s the buzz on Twitter?

Keith Pompey @PompeyOnSixers
‘You can’t blame the Ben Simmons saga on Philly being a tough place to play’ by Locked On 76ers – Daily Podcast On The Philadelphia Sixers megaphone.link/LKN5731843645 – 8:23 PM
Ky Carlin @Ky_Carlin
With Ben Simmons not with the team right now, Philadelphia will have to rely on others to handle the playmaking duties #Sixers sixerswire.usatoday.com/2021/09/28/six… via @SixersWire #NBA – 8:14 PM
Ky Carlin @Ky_Carlin
Another day, another Ben Simmons story in this saga. Doc Rivers reacted to the latest news when it comes to his All-Star. #Sixers sixerswire.usatoday.com/2021/09/28/six… via @SixersWire #NBA – 8:13 PM
Jeff Goodman @GoodmanHoops
Doc Rivers + Ben Simmons’ Future & What’s Next For Kyrie Irving? | Bob Ryan & Jeff Goodman Podcast powered by @LinkedIn twitter.com/i/broadcasts/1… – 7:00 PM
Kevin O’Connor @KevinOConnorNBA
New Mismatch with @Chris Vernon on Zion’s secret foot surgery and future, vaccines ruling media day, all the latest on Ben Simmons, MPJ’s max extension, John Wall weirdness, how the Lakers recruited Russell Westbrook, and much more. @ringer open.spotify.com/episode/4mzkfa… – 4:47 PM
Michael De Leon @mdeleon
The latest episode of the Spurscast is live with @Paul Garcia and @Josh810 discussing training camp questions, Manu’s return to the team and…Ben Simmons projectspurs.com/2021/09/28/spu… presented by @DraftKings #TBPN #GoSpursGo – 4:30 PM
Diamond Leung @diamond83
Donovan McNabb on WIP when asked about Ben Simmons: “Didn’t Carson (Wentz) do the same thing?” – 4:17 PM
Jake Fischer @JakeLFischer
We’re back on @thehalftimeapp, talking all things NBA media day, the latest on Ben Simmons and more. Join us: share.thehalftime.app/audio/A-295f5d… – 4:00 PM
Keith Pompey @PompeyOnSixers
Ben Simmons believes his pairing with Joel Embiid on the Sixers has ‘run its course’ inquirer.com/sixers/ben-sim… via @phillyinquirer – 3:48 PM
Keith Pompey @PompeyOnSixers
‘You can’t blame the Ben Simmons saga on Philly being a tough place to play’ by Locked On 76ers – Daily Podcast On The Philadelphia Sixers megaphone.link/LKN5731843645 – 3:46 PM
The Jump @_Talkin_NBA
Sixers ownership group is willing to “holdout and be stubborn” in regards to finding a good trade package for Ben Simmons 😬👀
h/t @Kendrick Perkins
#NBATwitter pic.twitter.com/H6h0pQGCUB – 3:28 PM
Kevin O’Connor @KevinOConnorNBA
New report on the Ben Simmons situation, potential timing for a trade, and details of his meeting with the Sixers, including how Doc Rivers had hoped to utilize Simmons in a Giannis-like role. @ringer theringer.com/nba/2021/9/28/… – 3:06 PM
Marc Stein @TheSteinLine
Media Day Monday is meant to carry an upbeat spirit of renewal. Media Day 2021 certainly did not.
Delving into all the NBA latest with Zion Williamson, Ben Simmons, Kyrie Irving, Andrew Wiggins, Bradley Beal and more in my (free-to-all) Tuesday dispatch: marcstein.substack.com/p/true-case-of… – 1:57 PM
Howard Beck @HowardBeck
On the Crossover, @Chris Mannix and I tackle the Ben Simmons saga (again!), the Kyrie-Beal-Wiggins anti-vax vortex and Dame Lillard’s happiness in Portlandia.
Listen/subscribe: link.chtbl.com/crossover pic.twitter.com/MGqyj4o2Nw – 1:49 PM
Tommy Beer @TommyBeer
Per @Basketball-Reference,
Ben Simmons is one of five players in NBA history to dish out more than 2,000 assists and grab more than 2,000 rebounds over his first four seasons in the league.
The other four players are:
LeBron James,
Oscar Roberston,
Grant Hill and
Magic Johnson – 1:47 PM
Noah Levick @NoahLevick
From Doc Rivers:
-Still expects Ben Simmons to be here at some point
-More players should feel free to push ball up court without him
-Second unit enjoyed playing with Niang, his shooting – 1:37 PM
John Gonzalez @JohnGonzalez
Don’t call it a comeback: @ChrisRyan77 on life after Ben Simmons for the Sixers
theringer.com/nba/2021/9/28/… – 1:23 PM
Chris Mannix @SIChrisMannix
NEW @TheCrossover Pod w/@Howard Beck: Running through a busy Media Day, from Kyrie’s status, the Sixers response to Ben Simmons, Damian Lillard, Zion’s injury, Porzingis’s position, more. Links: bit.ly/2w1G5e2 – 11:42 AM
Zach Lowe @ZachLowe_NBA
Lowe Post podcast: @Sarah Kustok on Nets media day, Kyrie, expectations for Brooklyn; then @Tim Bontemps + I on MPJ’s extension in Denver, the latest on Ben Simmons, and a preview of the defending champion Bucks:
Apple: apple.co/3maYBXH
Spotify: spoti.fi/3iakdCf – 11:32 AM
Kurt Helin @basketballtalk
Report: Ben Simmons no longer wants to play with 76ers star Joel Embiid nba.nbcsports.com/2021/09/28/rep… – 11:05 AM
Ky Carlin @Ky_Carlin
Ben Simmons has made it clear that the pairing with Joel Embiid has run its course #Sixers sixerswire.usatoday.com/2021/09/28/rep… via @SixersWire #NBA – 10:56 AM
Keith Pompey @PompeyOnSixers
Ben Simmons believes his pairing with Joel Embiid on the #Sixers has “run its course” inquirer.com/sixers/ben-sim… via @phillyinquirer – 10:53 AM
Rich Hoffman @rich_hofmann
Among other things, Joel Embiid spoke about being disappointed Ben Simmons isn’t in camp. He pointed to their success in the regular season as a duo.
With Simmons holding out, the Sixers are facing the possibility they won’t have that successful formula: theathletic.com/2853285/2021/0… pic.twitter.com/x52nWRfOB2 – 8:30 AM

Keith Pompey @PompeyOnSixers
‘You can’t blame the Ben Simmons saga on Philly being a tough place to play’ by Locked On 76ers – Daily Podcast On The Philadelphia Sixers megaphone.link/LKN5731843645 – 8:17 AM
Keith Pompey @PompeyOnSixers
‘You can’t blame the Ben Simmons saga on Philly being a tough place to play’ by Locked On 76ers – Daily Podcast On The Philadelphia Sixers #Sixers megaphone.link/LKN5731843645 – 7:28 AM

More on this storyline

Ramona Shelburne: Ben Simmons is willing to sit as long as it takes to. When you talk to people close to Ben, I say ,”Okay, worst-case scenario it takes all year. Would he sit all year?” And the answer right now is: “Yes.” -via YouTube / September 29, 2021
League sources say the primary motivation for Klutch Sports’ aggressive holdout is to steer him to a team built around him on offense. No matter the roster makeup in Philly, he will only ever be no. 2 as long as Embiid is healthy. -via The Ringer / September 28, 2021

Warriors not looking to move Andrew Wiggins

Anthony Slater: I have not heard anyone behind the scenes yet say up better start shopping (Andrew Wiggins) or something like that. Source: The Athletic What’s the buzz on Twitter? Kendra Andrews @ kendra__andrews Andrew Wiggins participated in day …

What’s the buzz on Twitter?

Kendra Andrews @kendra__andrews
Andrew Wiggins participated in day 1 of training camp, but Steve Kerr says there are isn’t an update about his Wiggins’ vaccination status. – 4:33 PM
Nick Friedell @NickFriedell
Kerr says Wiggins went through the Warriors first practice.
“No update,” Kerr said, when asked about Wiggins’ vax status. – 4:31 PM
Anthony Slater @anthonyVslater
Andrew Wiggins practiced today. No update on the vaccination front though. – 4:29 PM
Marc Stein @TheSteinLine
Media Day Monday is meant to carry an upbeat spirit of renewal. Media Day 2021 certainly did not.
Delving into all the NBA latest with Zion Williamson, Ben Simmons, Kyrie Irving, Andrew Wiggins, Bradley Beal and more in my (free-to-all) Tuesday dispatch: marcstein.substack.com/p/true-case-of… – 1:57 PM
Howard Beck @HowardBeck
On the Crossover, @Chris Mannix and I tackle the Ben Simmons saga (again!), the Kyrie-Beal-Wiggins anti-vax vortex and Dame Lillard’s happiness in Portlandia.
Listen/subscribe: link.chtbl.com/crossover pic.twitter.com/MGqyj4o2Nw – 1:49 PM
Bob Garcia @bgarciaivsports
Andrew Wiggins is willing to lose $8.9 million over his refusal to take the COVID-19 vaccine.
#Warriors #DubNation #NBA #NBATwitter
sportscasting.com/andrew-wiggins… – 12:49 PM
Brian Lewis @NYPost_Lewis
I’d say to look into the CBA. The bolded parts are the most relevant to the #Nets situation with Kyrie (and #Warriors with Wiggins, #Wizards w/ Beal, etc). #nba 👇🏾 pic.twitter.com/CEBeJmdW4b – 11:22 AM

Marcus Thompson @ThompsonScribe
Klay Thompson is “about 75-80 percent” but his aura is as strong as ever || Plus the revealing of Andrew Wiggins || Plus James Wiseman’s hustle and flow || a sort of Media Day randomness for your enjoyment
theathletic.com/2854148/2021/0… pic.twitter.com/S1Ftbivvx3 – 11:20 AM

Connor Letourneau @Con_Chron
Your final story of the day on Andrew Wiggins, who showed at media day that he feels strongly about not getting vaccinated. The question now is what that means for the Warriors’ season. sfchronicle.com/sports/warrior… – 9:10 PM
Anthony Slater @anthonyVslater
Andrew Wiggins doesn’t sound ready to move off his stance theathletic.com/2852622/2021/0… – 9:04 PM
Monte Poole @MontePooleNBCS
Under perhaps the brightest, harshest light of his career, Warriors SF Andrew Wiggins shows no sign of blinking. nbcsports.com/bayarea/warrio… – 8:19 PM
Connor Letourneau @Con_Chron
Via @annkillion: Andrew Wiggins needs to realize that his vaccination status is the Warriors’ business. sfchronicle.com/sports/annkill… – 7:06 PM
Kurt Helin @basketballtalk
Vaccine-resistant Andrew Wiggins: ‘I’m just going to keep fighting for what I believe’; What do you believe? ‘None of your business’ nba.nbcsports.com/2021/09/27/vac… – 7:01 PM
Anthony Slater @anthonyVslater
Steph Curry on Andrew Wiggins non-vaccination situation pic.twitter.com/CbGAAn9kFM – 5:50 PM

Nick Friedell @NickFriedell
Steph is hopeful, like many other Warriors staffers, that Wiggins will end up getting the vaccine. “We obviously hope he’s available and with us.”
Steph also notes that he is vaccinated. – 5:49 PM
Anthony Slater @anthonyVslater
Steph Curry on Andrew Wiggins: “We hope he’s available. If not, we adjust accordingly. We hope not.” – 5:48 PM
Marc J. Spears @MarcJSpears
Stephen Curry says he is vaccinated and following the mandates, but Andrew Wiggins situation is “entirely up to him” and “difficult.” – 5:47 PM
Connor Letourneau @Con_Chron
Steph Curry on Andrew Wiggins: “At the end of the day, it is up to him. … We obviously hope he has all the right information, access to the right resources. … We hope he’s available. We hope it moves in the right direction.” – 5:47 PM
Melissa Rohlin @melissarohlin
Steph Curry on Andrew Wiggins: “At the end of the day, it is up to him. We obviously hope that he has all the right information…We hope he’s available…My opinion is obviously I got it and [I’m] ready to be available.” – 5:47 PM
Melissa Rohlin @melissarohlin
Andre Iguodala said he’s upset about what he’s reading about Wiggins, adding that he’s worried his brand is being hurt. “There’s people that have an excuse and there’s people who have actual values,” he said, adding that Wiggins has values. – 5:29 PM
Marc J. Spears @MarcJSpears
“There is a guy who has an excuse. Then there are guys that have values. (Andrew Wiggins) has actual values,” said Warriors guard Andre Iguodala, who added he is vaccinated. – 5:29 PM
Connor Letourneau @Con_Chron
Andre Iguodala on Andrew Wiggins’ anti-vax stance: “We all have to do our homework a little bit better. That’s for all of us. I’ve been upset reading about Andrew Wiggins because it’s painting the wrong picture. … He’s a guy that has values. He’s the type of guy I’ll stand by.” – 5:28 PM
Connor Letourneau @Con_Chron
Andrew Wiggins declined to offer much insight into his ongoing decision about whether to get vaccinated, but he intimated that he’s still mulling his options. sfchronicle.com/sports/warrior… – 5:17 PM
Bobby Marks @BobbyMarks42
Denver will become the 4th team in 2022-23 that has 3 players on max contracts.
– Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr.
They will join Brooklyn (KD, Harden, Kyrie), GSW (Steph, Klay, Wiggins) and LAL (LeBron, AD, Russ) – 4:46 PM
Connor Letourneau @Con_Chron
Nemanja Bjelica: “Andrew (Wiggins) is one of the nicest people I’ve ever met. I met him seven years ago when both of us were rookies with Minnesota. … Me and my teammates, we are supporting him. Whatever he needs. He’s one of the best people I’ve ever met. Great guy.” – 4:12 PM
Nick Friedell @NickFriedell
Wiggins got more defensive about vax questions as press conference went on — stating he didn’t wanted to fully explain stance at present time. When it was brought up that he stands to potentially lose a lot of money — his answer was simple: “That ‘s my problem, not yours.” – 4:11 PM
Anthony Slater @anthonyVslater
Some of Andrew Wiggins’ presser today declining to discuss his decision not to get vaccinated in much detail pic.twitter.com/W54QrTuwCC – 4:08 PM

Kerith Burke @KerithBurke
Wiggins repeats his beliefs are his and does not want to elaborate about his vaccine status. @Marcus Thompson asks directly what his beliefs are. “It’s none of your business,” Wiggins says. – 4:07 PM
Nick Friedell @NickFriedell
Wiggins: “I’ll say something when I’m ready … I’ll say my side when I’m ready.” Wiggins says he has gotten advice “from everybody.” – 4:04 PM
Monte Poole @MontePooleNBCS
‘I know. And it’s my problem, not yours.’
Warriors F Andrew Wiggins, reminded that being unvaccinated could cost him millions in salary. – 4:04 PM
Marc J. Spears @MarcJSpears
When asked the potential major money he could lose, Warriors forward Andrew Wiggins said: “It’s my problem. Not yours.” – 4:04 PM
Marcus Thompson @ThompsonScribe
Wiggins when asked why he doesn’t just explain his side: “Because it’s none of your business.” – 4:03 PM
Connor Letourneau @Con_Chron
Andrew Wiggins: “My back is against the wall, but I’m just going to keep fighting for what I believe. Whether it’s one thing or another, get a vaccination or not get a vaccination, who knows? I’m just going to keep fighting for what I believe in.” – 4:03 PM
Monte Poole @MontePooleNBCS
‘Back is definitely against the wall. I’m going to keep fighting for what I believe is right.’
-Warriors F Andrew Wiggins, facing an Oct. 13 deadline to meet SF vaccination mandate – 4:02 PM
Marc J. Spears @MarcJSpears
Andrew Wiggins said his “back against the wall” and that he plans to stick with his beliefs. – 4:02 PM
Anthony Slater @anthonyVslater
Andrew Wiggins: “Back is definitely against the wall. I’m gonna keep fighting for what I believe. What’s right to one person isn’t right to the other and vice versa.” – 4:02 PM
Connor Letourneau @Con_Chron
Andrew Wiggins on whether he’ll be wearing a mask around his teammates: “I’m just going to keep it private. I’m sure whatever I do in this building is going to get out to you guys eventually.” – 4:01 PM
Kerith Burke @KerithBurke
Wiggins on the spotlight the vaccine story has garnered: “It’s not uncomfortable. I’m confident in my beliefs.” – 3:57 PM
Connor Letourneau @Con_Chron
Andrew Wiggins: “I’m confident in my beliefs and what I think is right, what I think is wrong. I’m just going to keep doing what I believe, whether it’s one thing or another.” – 3:57 PM
Marc J. Spears @MarcJSpears
“I’m confident in my beliefs and what I think is right and what I think is wrong,” Warriors forward Andrew Wiggins said. – 3:57 PM
Kendra Andrews @kendra__andrews
Andrew Wiggins on his vaccination status: “I’m going to keep all of that private right now.” – 3:56 PM
Connor Letourneau @Con_Chron
Andrew Wiggins on conversations with his teammates: “My team, I love them. … If they want to chat about it or anything, it wouldn’t matter.” – 3:56 PM
Kerith Burke @KerithBurke
Andrew Wiggins on his vaccine status: “Anything with my status I’m going to keep private.” – 3:56 PM
Monte Poole @MontePooleNBCS
Andrew Wiggins will not provide details about his ‘status.’ Wants to ‘keep that private.’ – 3:56 PM
Marc J. Spears @MarcJSpears
Warriors forward Andrew Wiggins said that anything to do with his vaccination or playing status he would prefer to keep private, but his teammates have been giving him
“love and support.” – 3:55 PM
Anthony Slater @anthonyVslater
Andrew Wiggins: “I’m just going to keep all that private right now…Anything that has to do with my status, vaccination, I’m going to keep it personal, private.” – 3:55 PM
Nick Friedell @NickFriedell
Wiggins, on topic of vax status: “I’m going to keep all that private.” – 3:55 PM
Connor Letourneau @Con_Chron
Andrew Wiggins on his vaccination status: “I’m going to keep all of that private right now.” – 3:54 PM
Rylan Stiles @Rylan_Stiles
Aaron Wiggins on the line of two way guys to be converted by the Thunder “in terms of knowing what to expect, to a certain degree I have an idea but I’m excited to go through it.” – 2:53 PM
Rylan Stiles @Rylan_Stiles
Aaron Wiggins calls development “a huge part of everyone’s game, knowing I’ll have the opportunity to get better and play with a group of guys, I’m support excited.” – 2:53 PM
Rylan Stiles @Rylan_Stiles
Aaron Wiggins “continuing to learn, take from summer league what we learned about the way the Thunder play, carry it on and take it into the last two months so I’m prepared and ready.” – 2:51 PM
Monte Poole @MontePooleNBCS
Warriors GM Bob Myers isn’t speaking specifics regarding Andrew Wiggins’ anti-vaxx status but says he’s ‘confident we have our full team.’ – 1:36 PM
Anthony Slater @anthonyVslater
Bob Myers wouldn’t discuss Andrew Wiggins or any player’s vaccination status, but said: “I’m optimistic come the first game at Chase (Center) we’ll have our full complement of players (available).” Besides injuries. – 1:33 PM
Nick Friedell @NickFriedell
Myers doesn’t address Wiggins’ vax status specifically — but says “My expectation and hope is come the first game we’re all here.” – 1:33 PM
Connor Letourneau @Con_Chron
Bob Myers on Andrew Wiggins’ vaccination status: “I’m optimistic that, come the first game here at Chase, we’ll have our full complement of players.” – 1:32 PM
Anthony Slater @anthonyVslater
The expectation is that Andrew Wiggins will attend Media Day, practice in training camp and appear in the Warriors’ first four preseason games, even while the vaccine situation gets sorted out. SF’s rule doesn’t enact until Oct. 13. theathletic.com/2845066/2021/0… – 11:02 AM
Jon Hamm @JonMHamm
Not counting the two-way players (Wiggins and Waton, Jr.), OKC goes into camp with 16 players that have contracts, guaranteed or not, for next season. Could be looking at a camp battle between Diakite, Deck, and Roby for a roster spot. – 9:58 PM
Gerald Bourguet @GeraldBourguet
As a religious person, it pisses me off when people like Jonathan Isaac and Andrew Wiggins use religion as their excuse for rejecting science. They’re not diametrically opposed. Stop being stupid and get vaccinated. – 5:38 PM
Chris Biderman @TheWarriorsWire
Before the start of training camp, Andrew Wiggins got in a workout with fellow NBA players Aaron Gordon, Justise Winslow and Jalen Johnson. warriorswire.usatoday.com/2021/09/23/wat… – 10:00 AM

More on this storyline

The Warriors have been subject to rumors of trading away Andrew Wiggins, James Wiseman, their two 2021 lottery picks — Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody — and possibly even future draft picks. But sources within the Golden State organization told NBC Sports Bay Area that there is only one player they’d be willing to give all of that away for. And that player isn’t even available yet. -via NBC Sports / August 1, 2021
No particular name was mentioned, but it’s hard not to assume Washington Wizards star shooting guard Bradley Beal is the aforementioned player. Beal would be a logical addition to the Warrior, and would be someone who could help get them back on top of the Western Conference, if not the NBA. But Beal has denied wanting a trade out of Washington. -via NBC Sports / August 1, 2021

Wizards GM: Russell Westbrook never asked to move on

The Wizards’ decision to trade Russell Westbrook to the Los Angeles Lakers this offseason may have been in the best interest of the star point guard, but Washington GM Tommy Sheppard attests that Westbrook was “professional” and never demanded a …

The Wizards’ decision to trade Russell Westbrook to the Los Angeles Lakers this offseason may have been in the best interest of the star point guard, but Washington GM Tommy Sheppard attests that Westbrook was “professional” and never demanded a trade from the team. “I really have to make sure the record is straight on that,” Sheppard said in an interview with NBC Sports Washington’s Chris Miller. “Russell actually never asked to move on. He just said, ‘If I can get to the Lakers, that’d be something I would love to do. If not, I’ll be back here.’ I said, ‘What about the Clippers?’ He said, ‘Hell no.’ So Russell was happy being here and we were very grateful for him being here.”

Source: Matt Weyrich @ NBC Sports

What’s the buzz on Twitter?

Arash Markazi @ArashMarkazi
On @FOXLA tonight talking about Lakers Media Day and why I think Russell Westbrook and Carmelo Anthony are checking their egos at the door this season. pic.twitter.com/DLYzxchKDc – 10:45 PM
Dave McMenamin @mcten
A couple weeks after he was traded to the Lakers, Russell Westbrook got together for a joint workout with LeBron James at a high school gym in Beverly Hills. The triple-double guru’s initial thoughts? “This is going to work,” Westbrook told ESPN es.pn/3oeaoH5 – 10:32 PM
Alex Kennedy @AlexKennedyNBA
Most career games among active players:
1. LeBron James, LAL, 1310
2. Andre Iguodala, GSW, 1192
3. Carmelo Anthony, LAL, 1191
4. Dwight Howard, LAL, 1182
5. Trevor Ariza, LAL, 1094
(Russ Westbrook is 13th, DeAndre Jordan is 14th and Rajon Rondo is 16th): basketballnews.com/stories/lebron… – 9:10 PM
Jovan Buha @jovanbuha
Five questions for the Lakers as they being training camp today:
— How does Russell Westbrook fit in?
— Which version of AD (2019-20 or 2020-21) will LA have?
— Which backcourt players step up defensively?
— What’s the 10-man rotation?
And more: theathletic.com/2853640/2021/0… – 6:18 PM
Kevin O’Connor @KevinOConnorNBA
New Mismatch with @Chris Vernon on Zion’s secret foot surgery and future, vaccines ruling media day, all the latest on Ben Simmons, MPJ’s max extension, John Wall weirdness, how the Lakers recruited Russell Westbrook, and much more. @ringer open.spotify.com/episode/4mzkfa… – 4:47 PM
Bob Garcia @bgarciaivsports
LeBron James just gave Russell Westbrook the dose of confidence he needed before playing his first year with the #Lakers
#LakersMediaDay #LakeShow #NBA #NBATwitter #LakerNation
sportscasting.com/lebron-james-j… – 4:06 PM
Kamenetzky Brothers @KamBrothers
For the sickos who like to watch, Tuesday’s @LockedOnLakers pod, YouTube version. Among the topics discussed, new details about the Westbrook trade (via @The Athletic) that should make Laker fans very happy. @LockedOnNBAPods @LockedOnNetwork
youtu.be/zqpYA43M-bM?t=… – 4:00 PM
Mike Trudell @LakersReporter
Dwight said he’s really looking forward to playing with Westbrook, whose energy he thinks will rub off on everybody else. “All of us are intense … he’s another level.”
Westbrook also benefits the big men, said Dwight, as bigs “eat” off his dribble penetration and passing. – 3:04 PM
Ryan Ward @RyanWardLA
Dwight Howard on Russell Westbrook: “I’m looking forward to playing with Russ.” Called it a “dream come true.” – 3:03 PM
Melissa Rohlin @melissarohlin
Rajon Rondo on the competitive nature between him and Russell Westbrook: “I know he’s looking to destroy me. Likewise, I’m looking to destroy him.” – 2:35 PM
Mike Trudell @LakersReporter
Westbrook said he doesn’t take for granted the opportunity to have a job, to be able to come to the Lakers facility every day and work, especially in his home town. Genuine excitement. – 2:24 PM
Mark Medina @MarkG_Medina
Russell Westbrook on the team’s minicamp in Vegas pic.twitter.com/Onn41eH51r – 2:23 PM

Mark Medina @MarkG_Medina
Russell Westbrook on LeBron James welcoming him with open arms pic.twitter.com/alorfQmrgP – 2:21 PM

Ryan Ward @RyanWardLA
Russell Westbrook on calling Trevor Ariza: “That’s my dawg!” – 2:21 PM
Melissa Rohlin @melissarohlin
Russell Westbrook on his excitement about playing for the Lakers pic.twitter.com/y7KGMDkNi0 – 2:20 PM

Jovan Buha @jovanbuha
Russell Westbrook said that no one can guard Anthony Davis at the 4 or the 5, but AD playing at the 5 is “a real advantage” for the Lakers due to the spacing it provides for driving lanes and the pick-and-roll/pop. – 2:20 PM
Arash Markazi @ArashMarkazi
Russell Westbrook said the Lakers could be “deadly” this season with Anthony Davis playing center. – 2:18 PM
Arash Markazi @ArashMarkazi
Russell Westbrook: “There’s always been conversations about me coming home and to be able to sit here and in this Lakers uniform is a blessing.” pic.twitter.com/KDl4LjXL0z – 2:18 PM

Ryan Ward @RyanWardLA
Russell Westbrook: “There’s always been conversations about me coming home. Every summer [laughs].” Calls it a “blessing” to be back home and play for the Lakers. – 2:17 PM
Mike Trudell @LakersReporter
Westbrook said that he and LeBron, since the trade, have developed a real mutual understanding of each other’s work ethic, preparation and desire to win: “We both understand and know what it takes to be able to win, but ‘Bron understands what it takes to get to that next level.” – 2:17 PM
Ryan Ward @RyanWardLA
Russell Westbrook on LeBron’s comments about him: “My job is to uplift LeBron, AD…” – 2:14 PM
Ryan Ward @RyanWardLA
Russell Westbrook is up next… – 2:13 PM
Mark Medina @MarkG_Medina
Wayne Ellington predicted the Lakers will experience “shooter’s paradise” with how much LeBron, AD & Westbrook will attract attention and how well they set up teammates – 1:53 PM
StatMuse @statmuse
The Lakers jersey numbers:
0 — Westbrook
1 — Ariza
2 — Ellington
3 — AD
4 — Rondo
5 — THT
6 — LeBron
7 — Melo
9 — Baze
10 — DeAndre
11 — Monk
12 — Nunn
39 — Dwight
This HAS to be the lowest jersey number combination for a team in NBA history. pic.twitter.com/mnhCCgt3l0 – 1:40 PM

Arash Markazi @ArashMarkazi
Trevor Ariza said Russell Westbrook called him after he got traded to the Lakers and said he wanted to talk to him. Ariza said, “What the fuck do you want to talk to me about?” 😂 – 1:27 PM
Ryan Ward @RyanWardLA
Trevor Ariza once again says Russell Westbrook was “on my phone” right after the blockbuster trade. Said it was probably Westbrook that helped him come back to LA. – 1:27 PM
Mike Trudell @LakersReporter
In terms of fit with Westbrook, LeBron said it may not be “peanut butter and jelly” from the jump on the court in terms of who does what, but LeBron feels he always figures it out. Regardless of former teammates (Wade, Kyrie, AD, etc.), he eventually gets to the right balance. – 1:26 PM
Kyle Goon @kylegoon
LeBron on his connectivity with Russell Westbrook: “We’ve been tied at the hip pretty much since we made the acquisition.” – 1:14 PM
Ryan Ward @RyanWardLA
LeBron on Russell Westbrook: “Just his passion alone. … Very passionate about putting in the work.” – 1:14 PM
Brad Turner @BA_Turner
“As far as Russ, we need Russ to be Russ,” LeBron James on Russell Westbrook. – 1:14 PM
Ryan Ward @RyanWardLA
LeBron on Russell Westbrook: “We need Russ to be Russ.” – 1:13 PM
Bill Oram @billoram
A new season is here. Get up to date on all things Lakers, including the covert pursuit of Russell Westbrook (and other stars) as well as the willingness to play center that Anthony Davis just discussed.
50% media day discount through the link:
theathletic.com/2848702/2021/0… – 1:10 PM

More on this storyline

Fred Katz: Here is what the final version of the five-team trade looks like, according to sources: Seven players Rights to three more Draft picks Draft swaps 18 total trade pieces pic.twitter.com/6Uoy74XMcr -via Twitter @FredKatz / August 5, 2021
Bobby Marks: Here is what the 5 teamer looks like To WASH Kuzma KCP Harrell Dinwiddie A. Holiday Rights to I. Todd (#31) To LAL Westbook To BKN 2024 2nd 2025 2nd (right to swap with GSW or WAS) $11.5M Trade Exception To IND Rights to I. Jackson (#22) To SAS C. Hutchison 2022 2nd (WAS) -via Twitter @BobbyMarks42 / August 4, 2021
Bobby Marks: Because there is no salary incoming, Brooklyn does not have to match salary. The Dinwiddie money was added to Kuzma, KCP, Harrell, Holiday to match the Westbrook contract. $49.7M to WASH $44.1M to LAL That falls within 125% -via Twitter @BobbyMarks42 / August 4, 2021