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Wednesday, January 6

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NBA commissioner David Stern has indefinitely suspended Gilbert Arenas, saying the Washington Wizards guard is "not currently fit to take the court" for a game. Stern said in a statement Wednesday that Arenas' actions will "ultimately result in a substantial suspension, and perhaps worse." ESPN.com

Because Arenas violated NBA rules by bringing guns into Washington's locker room, Stern decided to punish Arenas now. He said the suspension begins immediately. "We fully endorse the decision of the NBA to indefinitely suspend Gilbert Arenas," the Wizards responded in a statement on Wednesday. "Strictly legal issues aside, Gilbert's recent behavior and statements, including his actions and statements last night in Philadelphia, are unacceptable. Some of our other players appeared to find Gilbert's behavior in Philadelphia amusing. This is also unacceptable. Under Abe Pollin's leadership, our organization never tolerated such behavior, and we have no intention of ever doing so." ESPN.com

For the same reason, I directed the Wizards to refrain from taking any action. Wizards personnel continue to be interviewed by law enforcement authorities, some are scheduled for appearance before the grand jury and the investigation is proceeding with the intensity that one would expect for such a serious incident. "Although it is clear that the actions of Mr. Arenas will ultimately result in a substantial suspension, and perhaps worse, his ongoing conduct has led me to conclude that he is not currently fit to take the court in an NBA game. Accordingly, I am suspending Mr. Arenas indefinitely, without pay, effective immediately pending the completion of the investigation by the NBA." Washington Post

With each game he misses, Arenas will lose about $147,200 of the $16.2 million he will earn this season in the second of a six-year, $111 million contract. The punishment came on his 28th birthday. A Wizards spokesman said Arenas left the team, which is playing in Cleveland, earlier Wednesday but didn't know where he was going. "It's sad," Wizards guard DeShawn Stevenson said. "You don't want to see a player go down like that. We're a family, and it hurts." CBSSports.com

Chad Ford: With Wizards supporting suspension ... looks like they're going for possible contract termination. Twitter.com

Marc Stein: ESPN.com sources: Some of Gil's closest pals pleaded w/him for days to stop being so chatty/unrepentant about the situation. Unsuccessfully. Twitter.com

Ken Wainstein, attorney for Gilbert Arenas, issued the following statement by his client: "I feel very badly that my actions have caused the NBA to suspend me, but I understand why the league took this action. I put the NBA in a negative light and let down my teammates and our fans. I am very sorry for doing that. While I never intended any harm or disrespect to the NBA or anyone else, my gun possession at the Verizon Center and my attempts at humor showed terrible judgment. I take full responsibility for my conduct. Washington Post

Earlier today, I called Commissioner Stern to apologize, and I hope we will be able to talk soon. I look forward to the day I can return to basketball. In the meantime, I will focus on dealing responsibly with this serious situation and I will continue to cooperate fully with the investigations by law enforcement and NBA authorities." Washington Post

Statement of G. William Hunter, Executive Director, National Basketball Players Association regarding Gilbert Arenas: "The Players Association was informed today that Gilbert Arenas has been suspended indefinitely by the NBA as a result of his actions in bringing firearms into his team locker room. Gilbert has acknowledged his regret regarding this incident, and the Players Association is aware that there is an ongoing criminal investigation taking place. The Players Association will continue to monitor the investigation being conducted by law enforcement authorities and the Commissioner's office. At the conclusion of these investigations we will determine the appropriate action to take on Gilbert's behalf." Washington Post

Kevin Durant: Continue to pray for gilbert arenas..i dont care what we do..we deserve a second chance!! Twitter.com

Adrian Wojnarowski: "Stern feels like he's been taunted by (Arenas)," NBA source says. "He's done for the year....at the very least." Twitter.com

Michael Lee: Wiz upset that players laughed w/ Gil in PHI: "Our organization never tolerated such behavior, and we have no intention of ever doing so.” Twitter.com

Art Garcia: One league exec: "Arenas was too casual" about the guns and "not remorseful enough." Twitter.com

The NBA has not ruled out suspending Washington Wizards guard Gilbert Arenas before the legal process plays out fully in Arenas' gun-possession case, according to sources close to the situation. ESPN.com

Although it has been widely expected that league officials will abide by their usual practice -- which is to wait for penalties to be meted out through the legal system before imposing their own sanctions -- sources told ESPN.com that suspending Arenas while he awaits his legal fate remains an option under consideration by NBA commissioner David Stern depending on how long the case goes because Arenas has already admitted to possessing firearms on Wizards property. ESPN.com

The legal process could take some time to play out, but time is almost up for Gilbert Arenas when it comes to another authority: NBA Commissioner David Stern. With the stunning lack of judgment Arenas displayed Tuesday night, when he sprayed rollicking teammates with imaginary gunfire during the pregame huddle in Philadelphia, Arenas may have squandered any hope for leniency and accelerated disciplinary action from the league, multiple sources told CBSSports.com. Stern, who had planned to wait until the legal process played out with regard to Arenas’ admitted possession of firearms in the Wizards’ locker room on Dec. 21, is now poised to take action – possibly as soon as this week, one of the sources said. CBSSports.com

Gilbert Arenas didn't help his case with David Stern when he formed play guns with his thumbs and index fingers and fired away during the Wizards' pregame introductions in Philadelphia Tuesday night, as captured in this picture. Clearly his teammates were in on the joke, as they're all laughing. But they're not the ones who will have to face Stern's wrath for violating his ban on guns in NBA territory. ESPN.com

Then Arenas told a questioner that he has Jesus tattooed on his ribs, "becuz he's on my side." That's actually a good line. Never heard that one before. See, aside from the whole PR disaster thing, Arenas can still manage to be refreshingly interesting. As Lee also reported, Gil hugged one of his hecklers as he left the court. "I said after the win, I want my hug," he said. "I'm just going to interact and do what I do." The Wizznutzz captured the image, and it's a good one. I think. Who knows any more. Washington Post

Paul Helmke, President of the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence, issued the following statement about Washington Wizards basketball player Gilbert Arenas: "If Gilbert Arenas brought firearms into the District of Columbia and stored them at the Verizon Center sports arena in violation of the law, he should be taken from the basketball court to a courtroom. If found guilty, he should be punished to the full extent of the law, including jail time if appropriate. "If the facts that have been reported in the media are accurate, Mr. Arenas violated the most fundamental rule of responsible gun owners: treat every gun as if it were loaded. Guns are not toys, and should not be treated as a joke. Washington Post

While Bower has been unable to settle on a consistent lineup -- often keeping Okafor on the bench for entire fourth quarters -- the team has been unable to establish a real identity and that leaves questions swirling around the franchise once again. "I have a contract with the Hornets and I'm not looking to go anyplace else," Paul said. "This is where I want to be and this is where I plan to stay. I'm happy in New Orleans and I'll be happier when we get things going right this season." NBA.com

The Hornets have been shopping Morris Peterson, Devin brown and Hilton Armstrong and really don't want much for either of them... the problem is Mo Pete is basically done as a player, Hilton Armstrong is a serviceable backup center and Devin brown is a decent enough backup guard... but these are not coveted players... I expect that New Orleans will make a deal or too but they have nothing pending or close. HoopsWorld

Otis is shopping... there is a strong belief around the team that Otis is hopping for some luck - otis has about $10 million in moveable assets that wouldn't radically effect the core --- Brandon Bass ($4 million), JJ Redick ($2.8 million), Anthony Johnson ($1.9 million) and Adonal Foyle ($1.3 million) --- toss in Mickael Pietrus at ($5.2 million) or Marcin Gortat (at roughly $3 million) and you could make a major splash... HoopsWorld

I know that Charlotte had eyes for Brandon Bass... I know Portland has talked to the Magic... I have talked to two teams about Marcin Gortat, and they both said he's fallen off too much to be traded now, one of them was in the hunt for him this summer and wouldn't trade for him now... HoopsWorld

Chris Tomasson: Don't expect Nuggets to use $3.24 mil. trade exception expiring Thursday. No urgency due to having $3.696 mil. exception expiring Aug. 7. Twitter.com

Higgins agrees the Bobcats need more depth at power forward. But he questions whether players willing to sign 10-days – likely development-leaguers – would help. “When you look at backup power forwards in (the NBA), a lot of them look like what we have,’’ Higgins said. “After Boris Diaw, we play Gerald Wallace or Stephen Jackson or Derrick Brown – 6-7 or 6-8 players -- in that role. “I don’t know that a guy who is not playing in the NBA could come right in and give us impactful minutes.’’ Charlotte Observer

Dwyane Wade spent his rookie season alongside Rafer Alston in the Miami Heat backcourt. He's anxious to rekindle that relationship. Wade said Wednesday he would welcome Alston back to Miami, a move that could come later this week provided the player once known as "Skip to my Lou" from his street-ball days clears waivers. It's clear the feeling is mutual, with Alston telling the South Florida Sun-Sentinel, "I'm coming" back to Miami. Miami Herald

It's unclear whether the Heat intend to drop Arroyo, whose contract becomes guaranteed if he isn't waived Wednesday, or keep him around as insurance. However, he would be an expensive luxury considering Miami's efforts to get under the luxury tax. Most likely, the Heat will cut him and try to bring him back on a 10-day deal, but other suitors (including European teams) could short-circuit that idea by offering him a more secure deal. Alston will have to play significantly better than he did in New Jersey for the move to make any sense for the Heat. I'm wondering whether Miami's familiarity with Alston (he played for the Heat in 2003-04) blinded the team to the drop in his production this season. And at 33, there are no guarantees the 10-year vet will return to his previous levels. ESPN.com

Point guard Carlos Arroyo was on the floor for the Miami Heat on Wednesday morning at AmericanAirlines Arena. Whether Arroyo will be back on the court for Wednesday night's game against the Boston Celtics remains unclear. The lone player on the roster without a guaranteed contract, Arroyo must be released by 6 p.m., or the Heat otherwise would be obligated to pay his salary for the balance of the season. South Florida Sun-Sentinel

Q: Quinn is finally going to be on another team, and Rafer is back. Only problem: How does the pecking order for our point guards shake out? -- Jordan. A: We'll find that out in coming days, or maybe even Wednesday. These have to be tense times for Carlos, who did nothing to be considered for release, other than having a non-guaranteed contract. I will say this, if a player here goes from starter to released, then I'm not sure how the Heat is going to attract players in similar situations in the future. The Heat asked Carlos to consistently give his best effort. He has done that. South Florida Sun-Sentinel

The issue is that the Heat has spent these past two seasons trying to sell Mario as somewhat of its point guard of the future, and as a starter. But, yes, with Daequan having gone south, there is something to your notion. Then again, with Wade playing so much point, the Heat's other guard essentially is a combo guard, anyway. The story now is whether Mario still is viewed as a significant part of the team's future. In the preseason, Riley said he would not add a veteran to inhibit Mario's growth. Now he has brought in two, when counting Arroyo and, soon, Alston. South Florida Sun-Sentinel

It remains possible that, under the NBA’s collective bargaining rules, Mensah-Bonsu could be offered a new cut-price deal by Toronto as soon as next week. However with lucrative offers already on hand from teams in Spain and Russia, the ex-Hackney forward is hinting that he will head home to Europe and give up his trans-Atlantic dream. “If I can go over there and have the type of season I had in the D-League last year, then I will definitely raise the eyebrows of some teams and look to get a more established contract, rather than always looking over my shoulder with a non-guaranteed contract or taking a short-term deal,” Mensah-Bonsu told The Fan 590. BritBall

“I’m definitely looking to put myself in a better position financially and then as a player too. I’m 26-years-old now. This is pretty much how my NBA career has gone. I had a short time in Dallas, an even shorter time in San Antonio. Same with Houston and Toronto too. It’s wearing thin sometimes. “As a player who plays based on confidence, it’s tough to keep bouncing back. But I’m a resilient guy. It’s not going to stop me from proving myself in the NBA but sometimes you’ve got to take your family into consideration and do what’s best for them.” BritBall

Brian Windhorst: Signs point to the Cavs waiving Coby Karl today. Twitter.com

Chris Tomasson: NBA source: Cleveland's Coby Karl might get cut on's today last day before contracts guarantted Future 10-day contract could remain option. Twitter.com

Almond has developed somewhat of a reputation for being a bit aloof at times and not always open to change, so it will be key for him to show that he has the intangibles to match his terrific talent. DraftExpress.com

Jason Friedman: Rockets announce that they have waived forward Mike Harris. He has to clear waivers before club has chance to re-sign him to RGV Vipers. Twitter.com

As expected, rookie Wesley Matthews’ contract has been guaranteed for the rest of the season. Salt Lake Tribune

Hope you are well. I wanted to hopefully shed some light on the Hawks’ thinking in the release of Othello Hunter (some) and also the players-only meeting (probably not a lot more than what was in the story). First, Hunter. This is Rick Sund’s answer to why the team made the move. “Basically, it just gives us some options for the roster. Wev’e got a two-week grace period in which we can have a 12-man roster before we have to get to a 13-man roster. It allows us to be able to look at the waiver wires a little bit right now. We have the NBDL Showcase, which coincides with this time period, so all the D-League teams are in one place.” Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Weeks after releasing its starting point guard, Fenerbahce Ulker has moved to add backcourt strength by signing Roko-Leni Ukic, a former double-digit scorer in the Euroleague. Although Fenerbahce is still in a tight race to reach the Top 16 from Group A, Ukic apparently will not be registered to play in Wednesday's road game at Montepaschi Siena. Ukic was in Istanbul early this week for physical tests before the announcement was made Tuesday. Ukic (196, 25) arrives from Milwaukee of the NBA, where he was averaging 3.1 points in 7.5 minutes over 13 games this season. Ukic spent three seasons in the Euroleague, from 2005 to 2008, with three different teams: Tau Ceramica, FC Barcelona and Lottomatica Roma. Euroleague.net

Scott Brooks on whether or not he would come out publicly and criticize Phil Jackson if Durant doesn’t make the All Star team: “No. Nah. I probably would not do that. No I wouldn’t do that. I will let you do that. (Host: Well it’s a tough question. You obviously support him but obviously have respect for Phil Jackson too.) That’s the beauty of being the head coach. You get to pick the reserves on the All Star team. It’s your right and you have to respect each other’s coaches right. I think Kevin is doing a great job of helping us win games, he’s putting up in a position to be successful, he’s a great kid, he’s deserving of everything he receives because he works hard for it.” Sports Radio Interviews

Derrick Rose confirmed on Wednesday that he will take the court to defend his Taco Bell Skills Challenge title in Dallas next month during NBA All-Star weekend. “It’s going to be a lot of fun,” said Rose from the Berto Center. “Last year, it was a great experience being there with my family. Just having the opportunity to be around the All-Stars; I can’t lie, it was fun. I appreciated that opportunity because it was so unbelievable.” NBA.com

Though Rose acknowledges winning the Skills Challenge is up there among his list of accomplishments, he said it wouldn’t compare to making the All-Star team. “It would mean a lot, knowing that my hard work paid off to the point I get the chance to play in that game with some of the greatest players in the world,” said Rose. “If it does happen in only my second year, I just hope I don’t get spoiled by it.” NBA.com

The Clippers disputed a report that injured rookie forward Blake Griffin would make his debut against the Bulls on Jan. 20, and said the date of his first game is undecided. "We have no target date," the team said in a statement. "The final stages of this process are yet to unfold, and it's not possible for anyone to predict its precise outcome." Chicago Tribune

Zach Lowe from Celtics Hub has an excellent post up about Ray Allen’s ability to make his teammates better, particularly the second unit. Lowe did some terrific research and his post is well worth a read. The quick takeaway is that when Allen is on the floor, the other four Celtics perform better. Doc Rivers often likes to integrate either Allen or Paul Pierce with the second unit in his first round of rotation subs. While Pierce has played well with the reserves, the numbers have shown that Allen has been a better fit. It’s not always a cut-and-dry decision for Rivers. Sometimes foul trouble dictates who will play. If one or the other has two fouls before the substitution it’s a safe bet that they will sit. Other times, it’s matchups. Rivers had some interesting things to say about this back in November following a practice after the Celtics played the Nets in that ugly game in the Meadowlands. “It’s matchups and unfortunately for us it’s not even matchups for us so far,” Rivers said at the time. “Paul and Ray have been in foul trouble almost every game. That makes the decision for you..." WEEI

Despite all these shortcomings, Jamison still has hope. "I still think right now is a pretty good opportunity where we can salvage the season and really move up in the standings," he said. "And given time, you could see this team putting together a string of wins." NBA.com

He underwent an MRI exam, which was negative for any broken bones or more serious injury, and was optimistic that it was more of a short-term nuisance. “I don’t think it’s going to be something serious,” Williams said. “It’s just real sore right now and it’s on my shooting hand, so I can’t really follow through or do a dribbling motion, which is important.” If Williams cannot play tonight, the Jazz’s challenge of ending a three-game losing streak only grows greater. “I definitely want to get out there and get back on the winning track because I know the team needs me and needs me to play well,” Williams said. Salt Lake Tribune

Mark Cuban: How you treat people when you are at the top, is how they will treat you when you fall. Twitter.com

Could LeBron James and his LRMR Marketing company be close to landing a new major partnership? On Monday, James flew to Indianapolis and spent the day shooting a commercial with Orlando Magic star Dwight Howard and Boston Celtics legend Larry Bird. It is believed that the commercial is for McDonald's and is planned to run during the Super Bowl, which would signify a significant new sponsorship opportunity for James. Indiana Pacers fan blog Indy Cornrows reported the spot was filmed at Conseco Fieldhouse and that it is a throwback to a famous Bird commercial with Michael Jordan where the stars played a game of H-O-R-S-E. Cleveland Plain Dealer

The next time Magic Johnson asks the Knicks for a seat along celebrity row, he first may want to ask Isiah Thomas for his forgiveness. The Daily News has learned that Johnson's request for comp tickets to a Knicks game last month was rejected due in part to his criticism of Thomas, the team's former president and head coach, who remains close to Garden chairman James Dolan. New York Daily News

A person close to the team says that when the Knicks didn't respond to Johnson's request immediately, the Hall of Famer later called the club to let it know that he had made other plans. A league source, however, contends that the club was reluctant to give Johnson a ticket because the Knicks were upset with the former Laker and didn't want to create a media firestorm at the Garden in the wake of his controversial comments relating to Thomas. New York Daily News

Nothing has been confirmed yet, but there is talk of another former NBA superstar stepping into political office. Statewide political analyst Tim Skubick, whose work appears in a number of media outlets, says if one-time Piston shooting guard Dave Bing can be mayor of Detroit, then there's no reason that another Piston shooting guard -- Joe Dumars -- can't be governor of Michigan. "Stack him up against the want ad and you have a potential blockbuster of a candidate that would not only set this town on its ear, but produce enough buzz to give the D's a better than even chance to hang onto the governor's chair," Skubick writes in a blog for The Oakland Press. Booth Newspapers

Could Michigan be the next state in the Union to have a governor without a past career in politics? Skubick says a source tells him that "feelers" have been put out to Dumars about a run. Booth Newspapers

The Los Angeles Clippers have targeted Jan. 20 as the night they hope rookie forward Blake Griffin finally makes his NBA debut, a league source told Yahoo! Sports. The Clippers play the Chicago Bulls at Staples Center on Jan. 20 before departing for an eight-game road trip. Griffin, the top pick in the 2009 draft, has yet to play because of a stress fracture in his left kneecap. If Griffin is healthy enough to face the Bulls, he’ll play limited minutes. Yahoo! Sports

Caron Butler continues to be the player most frequently nominated by rival teams when asked to project the league's next big name to be traded. Yet there is also a sense that the consuming nature of the Gilbert Arenas gun-possession case -- combined with the Wizards' presumed preference to move the older Antawn Jamison before Butler and the leverage they've likely lost because everyone knows that the Wizards are eager to deal -- has complicated Washington's efforts. ESPN.com

Another factor two Western Conference executives threw out Wednesday: Whether it's the secondary nature of his role with Arenas back from his knee issues or his struggles to adapt to Flip Saunders' offense, Butler just had his two best seasons when Arenas wasn't playing. The prospect of a long suspension (or worse) for Arenas could give Washington further pause when it comes to moving its next-best player. But the sense in the stands here in Boise -- where each of the D-League's 16 franchise plays two games in front of an audience mostly comprised of NBA folks -- is that more teams than not believe Butler could be moved before the Feb. 18 trading deadline. ESPN.com

Any chance the Nets are looking at moving Harris or Lopez for expiring? Try to get two max contracts and land Wall would turn them from laughing stock to contender in one summer. Chad Ford: I've wondered the same thing ... and the word I've gotten back from the Nets is no ... those two are the core. Anyone else on the roster is probably fair game. ESPN.com

What about Michael Redd? Are we going to move him? Chad Ford: Trying. It's not easy. Still not clear whether he has enough left to help a contender. ESPN.com

As often happens with veterans on struggling teams, Redd's name has begun to surface in trade rumors. The Bucks are looking less and less like contenders, and Redd is the type of player who, when healthy, can help a team get over the hump. Teams are starting to figure out whether or not they're ready to realize their preseason goals, and those that are hoping to contend may make a move to further that process. Like all NBA veterans, Redd wants his shot at a title, though his preference is for that to happen with the Bucks. "Obviously, you want to win every game, and at this point in my career I know there are more games behind than there are ahead. We're still in playoff contention, and feel like we can make it if we continue to fight and get back to what we were doing earlier in the season. I'd like it to happen for me here..." HoopsWorld

..."I've been here for ten years and this organization deserves a winner and I'd like to be here for it. I don't pay much attention to trade rumors. We all know that's part of the business. I just focus on doing my job and keep playing. Whatever happens, happens. I have a great relationship with management, they know I'm still coming back from injury, and we've just got to keep working hard." HoopsWorld

It's been a tough couple of seasons for Milwaukee Bucks star Michael Redd. After injuries limited him to just 33 games last season, he's only been able to play in 15 in 2009-10, and he admits he feels like he has to find his way with the team that evolved while he was out of action. "I do feel like I have to figure out where I fit with this team now," Redd tells HOOPSWORLD. "My thing is, I want to win. I want to win regardless of anything else. I want to win, to play on a contender, and I feel like we had our chance earlier in the season when we went 8-3, but we've slipped since then. We've got to get back to where we were at the beginning of the season and keep fighting." HoopsWorld

At least two sources with knowledge of Orlando's thinking remain convinced that the Magic will not consider trading reserve center Marcin Gortat before the summer. The Magic continue to give the impression that it's too soon for them to consider shake-up moves, even when they're "just playing terrible" ... in the words of coach Stan Van Gundy after Tuesday's road loss to lowly Indiana. ESPN.com

Troy Murphy and Jeff Foster are the two guys on their roster that a lot of GMs have interest in. I suspect both will be gone by the trade deadline. They both have a lot of value to contenders -- Murphy for his ability to spread the floor and to rebound. Foster as a mobile big who can defend players like Pau Gasol. I've talked to several GMs who have shown a lot of interest ... so there's hope. ESPN.com

Foster would look good as the Nuggets 3rd big. Do they have the assets to go after him? Chad Ford: They like him a lot, but they're going to need a third team to get involved unless they're willing to give the Pacers Ty Lawson. The Pacers were down to Lawson and Hansbrough on draft night. They went with Tyler and would love to get their hands on Lawson too. I just don't think the Nuggets would do it. ESPN.com

Ross Siler: There is much buzz about the Jazz doing everything possible to get under the luxury tax number between now and the trade deadline. Twitter.com

One of the league's meatier trade exceptions, worth $3.2 million from last January's Chucky Atkins trade to Oklahoma City, expires Thursday for the Nuggets. But two sources with knowledge of the Nuggets' thinking said it's unlikely that they will use the trade "credit" -- most commonly employed to acquire a player via trade without having to send out a matching salary or giving anything up beyond future draft considerations or cash -- to avoid adding further to Denver's luxury-tax bill. ESPN.com

Do you see Portland Making any moves before the deadline. Chad Ford: I've spoken with the Blazers and the feeling I got was that they don't know yet. So many players are injured, the value isn't high on many of them. I think if someone gets moved it will be Steve Blake. ESPN.com

Joe Freeman: There's also a strong chance Blazers don't sign anyone. Batum will travel on the next roadie & hopes to be back to play the Hornets Jan. 25. Twitter.com

Joe Freeman: On a completely unrelated note, the Blazers intend to waive Shavlik Randolph Wed. so his contract does not become guaranteed. Twitter.com

Twitter was also used Sunday by JaVale McGee's mother, former WNBA star Pamela McGee, who called for a "Free McGee Campaign," though it was unclear whether it was a trade demand or a plea for more playing time for the second-year center. Washington Examiner

Graham’s one-year, $884,881 contract will be guaranteed for the remainder of the season after Wednesday – the NBA deadline for waiving players with non-guaranteed deals. He had reason to celebrate after scoring a season-high 20 points and grabbing eight rebounds in Tuesday night’s win over the Golden State Warriors. “I know that I’m an NBA player,” Graham said. “I came in here with a confidence and a swagger knowing that I was going to be a Denver Nugget. I kept that mentality the whole time. My mindset wasn’t about guaranteed or non-guaranteed. My mindset was coming in here and playing hard.” NBA.com

The team will have two weeks to add a 13th player. Hunter played in seven games this season, his second with the Hawks, and was primarily an inactive player. He played in 16 games for the Hawks last season as a rookie. "Basically, it just gives us some options for the roster," general manager Rick Sund said. "We've got a two-week grace period in which we can have a 12-man roster before we have to get to a 13-man roster. It allows us to be able to look at the waiver wires a little bit right now." Atlanta Journal-Constitution

The Bucks tried without success, sources said, to trade reserve guard Roko Ukic in recent weeks, only for Ukic to surprise them by taking the unusual step of asking Milwaukee to release him from his contract immediately. Ukic had to forfeit more than $2 million in guaranteed salary this season and next season to do so, but only has to recoup closer to $1 million because of American taxes to break even. ESPN.com

Word around the league is that if (Reggie) Williams was going to receive a call-up it wouldn't happen until he showed he can play defense. Sioux Falls' head coach Tony Fritz gave him one of the tougher assignments in the D-League, thus allowing Williams to showcase his defensive prowess: the leader of the Maine Red Claws, Billy Thomas. FanHouse

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It was about as unexpected as Andy Reid saying he has to do a better job after an Eagles loss. The Sixers yesterday announced that guard Allen Iverson's contract will be guaranteed for the remainder of the season. "Honestly, I hadn't even thought about it," said Iverson, laughing. He said he loves being back with the organization that he called home for the first 10-plus years of his career. "I think the only frustrating part of the whole thing was trying to get into playing shape and dealing with my knee. That's been the only rough part of this whole thing.'' Philadelphia Daily News

Steve Kyler: Miami will only get NJ's 2010 pick if it is #50 or higher. No way that happens so Chris Quinn was basically traded for nothing. Twitter.com

Also from Kyler: NJ convinced Alston to settle for roughly $2.1 million rather than the $3.05 million he was due to make in next 49 games. Twitter.com

Quentin Richardson: Wanna wish my man Quinny all the best in NJ. Was def a pleasure bein around him since I came to the Heat. Twitter.com

The Utah Jazz, as expected, turned to the D-League to sign a third point guard. hat might have surprised some, though, was that they didn't raid the roster of their Orem-based affiliate. The Jazz, instead, picked up 6-foot-1 playmaker Sundiata Gaines of the Idaho Stampede for a 10-day contract. The transaction's approval is pending a physical examination, which will take place Wednesday in Utah. Deseret News

In comments to the San Antonio media Tuesday, McDyess openly questioned last season's infamous trade of Chauncey Billups (McDyess' best friend) to the Nuggets for Allen Iverson, which effectively ended the Pistons' era of Eastern Conference dominance. He also didn't express much sympathy for the organization that took a nine-game losing streak into Tuesday night's game against the Mavericks. "I think ever since they traded Chauncey away, everything just kind of went downhill from there," said McDyess, who will face the Pistons tonight. "It's like they broke up all chemistry, and I really didn't understand the whole logic of that trade. "I guess they really was in a rebuilding stage, and it's showing now." Detroit Free Press

Prosecutors began presenting evidence to a D.C. Superior Court grand jury Tuesday in the Gilbert Arenas gun case, but it could be days, if not weeks, before the panel decides whether to prosecute the star Wizards guard, two sources with knowledge of the proceedings said. The sources, who spoke on condition of anonymity because grand jury proceedings by law are secret, would not say what evidence was presented. Washington Post

But several law enforcement sources said that just because prosecutors are presenting evidence to the grand jury doesn't mean they are seeking an indictment. Often, they use the grand jury to evaluate evidence to see if there is enough for a conviction. D.C. Attorney General Peter Nickels declined to comment on the Arenas case, but said that even if the U.S. Attorney does not prosecute Arenas, his office could file misdemeanor charges of unauthorized possession of a handgun, which also carry a one-year prison sentence and a fine. Arenas's guns were not registered in the District, making it illegal to have them at Verizon Center. Washington Post

Police and prosecutors probing Washington Wizards star Gilbert Arenas are interviewing team staff as the federal grand jury investigation into possible gun violations continues, The Examiner has learned. The early focus of the probe will be to reconstruct from witnesses precisely what happened the night Arenas displayed handguns as part of what he described as a "misguided joke." Washington Examiner

Prosecutors have gathered a grand jury to explore weapons charges against Arenas, but any indictment is still weeks away, the source said, speaking on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the investigation. Through his lawyer, Arenas has said that his decision to lay out four handguns near teammate Crittenton on Dec. 21 was "a misguided effort to play a joke." Washington Examiner

Arenas said it is easy for him to stay calm through this tumultuous period. "If I really did something wrong, I would feel remorse in what I did, but I didn't do anything," he said. "You can slander me, or whatever, it doesn't matter. I'm still alive. I'm playing basketball. "I'll take all the hits right now. The truth is there; there is no point in getting angry and mad," Arenas said. "At the end of the day, all that I want is a sorry. It can be small print. Maybe just one person do it, for slandering me. Because you guys have no idea." Washington Post

For breaking the rules of the collective bargaining agreement, Arenas could get a fine of up to $50,000 and a suspension from NBA Commissioner David Stern. Arenas could be suspended before the legal process plays out. But one league official, speaking on condition of anonymity because the individual could not make public comments on behalf of Stern, said he likely would wait until he was comfortable with the information he has received before making a decision about Arenas. The CBA prohibits a player from being punished for the same offense twice, which one league source explained as the reason why the Wizards haven't suspended Arenas. Washington Post

Arenas was asked after the game what he feared more, law enforcement or David Stern? "Stern is mean," Arenas said. "I think he may make his decision before [the legal process plays out]. Most likely he's getting a lot of pressure, because of all the stories going around, to act. . . . I've looked at some of the charges brought against other people and they were [suspended] three to five games." Washington Post

He never said he was "innocent." He did say, "At the end of the day, when all is said and done, all I want is a 'sorry,' [an] 'apology.' " "I don't even . . . it can be small print, maybe one person do it, that's all I want," he said. "Because you guys have no idea. That's the problem. You guys are gonna do what you do; you guys don't know 'the story.' " Arenas clearly wasn't ready to divulge what happened on Dec. 21 in the locker room. "I have loyalty to my teammates," he said. "I'll let you guys beat me up. I'll take all the hits right now." Philadelphia Daily News

Once famous for being quirky and goofy, Arenas is now infamous following a locker room dispute with teammate Javaris Crittenton in which guns were displayed. Arenas explained his reason for handling the guns during an argument with Crittenton on Dec. 21 as "a misguided effort to play a joke on a teammate." He's tried to use humor to combat this stressful situation -- which could lead to serious trouble for violating D.C. gun laws and league rules. And, as his teammates gathered in a circle before the game, Arenas got in the middle, formed his hands into pistols -- thumbs up, index fingers out -- and acted as if he were shooting his teammates. "They said, 'Do it. Do it. Do it,' " Arenas said of his teammates. "You wonder why I can't be serious?" Washington Post

Crittenton's agent, Mark Bartelstein, said his client did not speak with the U.S. Attorney's office and is not scheduled to do so. Reserve guard Mike James did take up the defense of Arenas in front of reporters, adding to a series of posts he made via Twitter on Sunday night. "I'm in his corner until whatever happens," said James. "That's my teammate, that's my brother here." Washington Examiner

Gilbert Arenas: I know everybody seen the pre game pics..my teammate thought to break the tention we should do that..but this is gettn way to much. Twitter.com

Gilbert Arenas: I wanna say sorry if I pissed any body off by us havin fun...I'm sorry for anything u need to blame for for right now. Twitter.com

His teammates laughed hysterically. "Gil being Gil," Nick Young said afterward. "He's still finding ways to be funny." Washington Post

Gilbert Arenas: I am going green.no more fun for awhile. So here we go.. I landed in cleveland and its colder then the press heart. Twitter.com

Al Sharpton, who blasted Arenas in the New York Daily News and called for swift and harsh punishment because the "culture of violence that has perpetuated professional sports." In response, Arenas said, "It's kind of funny how people like him are supposed to be for the people, make a comment like that when he hasn't really heard anything. He's just reading the paper. For a leader, especially a black leader to make a comment like that, I don't think it's fair." Washington Post

Gilbert Arenas: For a kid who does a lot of work for the black community I didn't get the memo u were still one of our black leaders becuz if u was u wouldn't have made a comment like that befor gettn all the faxs str8..I hav my black leaders tattooed on my leg I call it black rush more. Twitter.com

Julius Hodge: There are many theories as to what actually happened, but the one fact of the matters is that having a gun in your locker at an NBA facility is stupid! Now whether Gilbert did indeed try a scare tactic to avoid any ongoings from Javaris is neither fact or fiction to the public as of now. Does being an NBA player in one of the toughest crime-filled cities in the United States means you need extra security? Maybe. The fact is that both of these young men are role models and should act in such manner. But no one is innocent. Not even secret agents. HoopsHype.com

With so much talk about Gilbert Arenas and guns in the Washington Wizards locker room, Brown was asked if he'd ever seen a gun in a locker room. He said no. "My brother is a U.S. marshal," he said, recalling a visit with his brother in Los Angeles where he wore a gun in a holster on his hip. "That's probably the only time I can think of that I've seen a real gun." Cleveland Plain Dealer

Brown said the Cavs were vigilant in adhering to NBA rules about firearms and even had director of team security Marvin Cross and local law enforcement personnel conduct an hour-long seminar on the subject. "It's something the league stresses," the coach said. "We as an organization take it a step or two beyond what the league does. We try to do the best we can in that area." Cleveland Plain Dealer

Dan Steinberg: Via @MrMichaelLee, Nick Young was asked what he was getting Gil for his birthday. "A muzzle," Young said. Twitter.com

Brothers Derek and Kevin Hines sat across from the Wizards' bench and held up a sign that read, "Go Sixers, Time To Disarm Agent Zero." During a break in action during the second quarter, a security guard confiscated the sign, balled it up and tossed it in the trash. Fans seated in their section started booing. Derek Hines, a law student at Villanova, questioned why his sign was taken away, but said the security guard informed him that the NBA had instructed them to remove all signs that targeted Arenas. "It was nothing offensive," Hines said, adding that he and his brother made the sign 30 minutes before leaving their home in Lancaster, Pa., for the game. "The offensive part is, he's bringing guns into the locker room." Washington Post

Crittenton, in his first public words since the blowup, told the New York Post he hadn't met with investigators yet and was still mulling his next legal move. "I'm not sure what I'm going to do right now," Crittenton said before ducking into his car and speeding away. New York Post

But the backlash may have already begun for the young player. A Washington-area Fox TV affiliate, WTTG, yanked a public-service announcement featuring Crittenton asking viewers to become mentors for kids. New York Post

Having lived through Stephen Jackson's early-morning shooting spree when he ran the Indiana Pacers, and now seeing what the Wizards are going through with Gilbert Arenas, Knicks president Donnie Walsh is as opposed as ever to NBA players owning guns. "Guns can really escalate a situation between two guys," Walsh said after his team had a light workout Tuesday in Greenburgh. "My objection to guys this age with guns is that if you've got one and another guy has one, now it's not a fistfight to settle your differences. Now, instead of that, it's a shootout." New York Daily News

Since returning to the team, Redd has struggled to find his shot. He's shooting just 35% from the field and averaging 12.1 points per game. Considering he averages better than 20 points per game and shoots over 45% for his career, it's pretty clear Redd isn't back to normal just yet. In fact, he was recently benched in Milwaukee's loss to Charlotte. "I'm a competitor, and that's something that has never happened to me before," says Redd, who was joined on the bench by Bogut. "But you persevere through it, you stay positive, and you worry about tonight's game and not let that previous experience affect you. I know who I am and I know what it takes to win in this league, so that one incident isn't anything that will stay with me." HoopsWorld

Kelenna Azubuike: Yo r u kidding me with the end of the warriors game?? Wow that was not a foul!!! Twitter.com

When asked if he could give his thoughts on the foul without getting fined, Ellis replied: "Nope" When pressed on the issue, he said: "No comment." HoopsWorld

"I'm very upset, obviously," said Warriors head coach Don Nelson. "Too many things went wrong after the game as far as I was concerned, but I thought we played our hearts out. I can't ask any more than what my team gave me. Too bad it had to end like that." * When asked directly if he thought Ellis fouled Smith, Nelson responded: "I'm not close enough to see it. I didn't study it, so I'm not going to have any comment on any of that stuff." HoopsWorld

Nelson later added: "Anytime you lose at the buzzer it's tough, but that team deserved to win a game," said Nelson. "Bad teams don't get breaks. I mean, let's face it, you just don't get breaks. That was our game. Anyway, that's all I've got to say." HoopsWorld

Karl returned fire saying: "I could also send in the video of their palms and (traveling violations) before that. It was a tough game to referee. I think it was a very entertaining game for the fans, but I'm just really happy. You've got to kind of steal a few every once in awhile, and I'm not sure this was a steal because my guys played with a lot of guts." HoopsWorld

The Warriors have been added to the league's watch list for post-play celebration from the bench. Apparently, players were standing for 28 seconds after one play. Players are allowed to stand and cheer, but must return to their seats within a reasonable time frame. San Francisco Chronicle

Joel Litvin, the league’s president of basketball operations, said, “we don’t separate player from agent.’’ It is an interesting new twist in the N.B.A.’s longstanding rules on player speech -– one the union is contesting. But the league considers this a practical matter: If agents are free to make trade demands, rip referees or criticize coaches, then the N.B.A.’s player-conduct rules are rendered meaningless. New York Times

“The agent has a legal relationship with that player,’’ Litvin said. “He speaks for the player, he acts for the player, he’s a fiduciary for that player. You can only imagine if we didn’t hold players accountable for the actions and words of their agents, how easy it would be to get around a lot of our rules. We don’t think players can disown what agents are saying and doing on their behalf.’’ New York Times

Litvin said that agents should not be surprised by the league’s stance. “Agents are sophisticated negotiators and in many cases they do a terrific job for players,’’ he said. “But they also need to be held responsible, and their players held responsible, for actions taken on behalf of their clients.’’ New York Times

Lakers center Andrew Bynum entered the game knowing Pau Gasol's absence (sore left hamstring) would probably make him the main option inside. Though Bynum isn't having any health issues, he's had symptoms of underperforming ever since Gasol returned from a right hamstring injury that sidelined him for the Lakers' first 11 games. "I just got a lot more touches on the block," said Bynum, who scored a team-leading 24 points. "Shots started falling for me and it just gets easier from there." Los Angeles Times

Kevin Ding: After Sasha hacked Scola, courtside fan mad abt bad foul. Nearest Laker Odom looked over and smiled at him: "I didn't do it." Twitter.com

Kate Fagan: From Andre Iguodala: "We need to start playing like we're 10-24, not like we're 24-10." Iguodala said he feels they have too much swagger. Twitter.com

Chris Douglas-Roberts: All I have to say is another 10 point first half...1 shot in the whole second half. I have to....do better. Twitter.com

Chris Douglas-Roberts: Just landed in Atlanta. Had a great flight. I love my teammates. Fa real. Instant amnesia. This is the NBA. Twitter.com

After losing their past four and six of their past eight, the Hawks held a players-only meeting Tuesday, which followed a post-practice meeting led by coach Mike Woodson. "It was just guys talking about what we need to do," forward Marvin Williams said. "It was all positive, all positive things." Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Players said the change has to start on defense. Over the past eight games, the Hawks are allowing opponents to shoot 48 percent from the floor, which is what the second-worst team in the league in that category was averaging before Tuesday's games. Hence, the meetings. "It's just a lack of effort," said center Al Horford. "People have to make the extra rotation, the extra offense. It has something to do with offense. If guys are not making shots, they tend to get a little discouraged. We still have to defend and rebound to give ourselves a chance to be in the game." Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Jose Calderon: "I think it's one year and a half that I haven't been 100 percent healthy. It's really hard when you can't do what you know you can do. You start thinking too much about it. It's a little bit frustrating." Marca.com

True, their grasp on near-respectability is tenuous. But Calderon, if he made the moment about himself, could make the argument, as Ford did, that he shouldn't lose his starting gig on account of an injury, and he'd have a point. He didn't make the point. Jay Triano, the Raptors coach, said he won't start Calderon in Wednesday's game against the Magic – "I'm not going to disrupt the unit that we have right now," the coach said – and Calderon wasn't exactly fuming. "It's Jay's call. I'm ready to help the team, and keep winning games," said Calderon on Tuesday, after he participated in his first full practice with his teammates since his injury. "If I've got to be coming from the bench the first two, three, four, five games, or whatever, it's Jay's call. He's the coach." Toronto Star

"It's not like Jose and I haven't played together ever. We played together (earlier this season), and we co-existed well, I thought," Jack said. "So I'm sure however coach feels he's going to fit (Calderon) in, or however the strategy is, I'll be ready for it." Toronto Star

Roy was called for a loose-ball foul after Memphis' O.J. Mayo knocked the ball out of his hands with 21.6 seconds left and the score tied 104. Mayo made only one of two foul shots, but it set off a chain of events that turned things the Grizzlies' way to the finish. "You don't make that call that late," Portland coach Nate McMillan said. "I didn't see the contact. That's a big call late in the game, and minimal contact. That's a tough one." "Of course we want it to go our way, but (Washington) made the call and I'm not going to complain, because he can't change it," Roy said. "He saw something, he made the call, and I just have to do a better job of protecting the ball." NBA.com

"I got a poke at the ball, and I just wanted to make sure I got the ball and not him because they were in the bonus," Mayo said. "It could have gone either way," Memphis coach Lionel Hollins said. "Now if he had fouled (Roy), I would have been upset." NBA.com

The Blazers had a chance to send the game into overtime when Jerryd Bayless was fouled with 4.3 seconds left and Memphis ahead 106-104. The second-year guard's first attempt ricocheted around the rim and bounced out. He made the second shot to close the gap to 106-105, but Portland had no timeouts left, and the Grizzlies put the game on ice with three free throws in the closing seconds. "We wanted (Bayless) to miss the (second) shot, just to see if we could get lucky," McMillan said. "He didn't get the word." NBA.com

Apparently, leading the NBA in three-point shooting last season with a 46.7 percentage doesn't guarantee the guard an invite to All-Star Weekend. "I don't think it's like that with anybody else," Morrow said. "If anyone else led the league in three-point shooting, I'm pretty sure they'd be in the three-point contest the next year. "I understand, though. I'm used to being an underdog." San Francisco Chronicle

A surprisingly upbeat Pau Gasol insisted that his latest hamstring strain is neither as painful nor as serious as the one that sidelined him for the final six exhibition games and the first 11 regular season games this year. "The pain is definitely a lot milder than the other strain," Gasol said. "I just hope that it heals up a lot faster than the other one did. Obviously I got the experience of dealing with the other one, so that helps too." Riverside Press-Enterprise

"I've never had any problems with my hamstrings," he said. "I don't think there's a reason for it. I guess I had a little bad luck, but hopefully it will go away soon enough and I can get back out there again." Riverside Press-Enterprise

O'Brien said Granger's torn right plantar fascia will keep him sidelined at least two more weeks. "I think Danny, he went up and down a little bit today. I still think he's two, 2 1/2 weeks away," O'Brien said before Tuesday's game against the Orlando Magic. "I haven't been told an exact time, but that's my understanding." Indianapolis Star

Few matchups at the Pepsi Center are more scintillating than Carmelo-LeBron — except for last season, when a banged-up Carmelo Anthony scored just 13 points, one more than Anthony Carter. But Melo missed his third consecutive game Tuesday night with a bruised right knee, and now he's unsure whether he will play Friday night against James and the Cleveland Cavaliers. "It's more motivation to get back, but regardless of how much I want to play in that game, or how big of a game that is for our team, I won't risk myself," Anthony said Tuesday. "I've been hurt since last Monday and haven't had any practice time, so I would never go out there and try to play without practice. I'll practice the next couple days and see how it goes. Some days feel better than others." Denver Post

Jose Calderon: "Playing next summer with the national team? (Laughs) It's soon to talk about it. First of all, I have to be 100 percent healthy and play games, and then, if I'm OK I really want to play (with Spain). And after not playing last summer, I want it even more." Marca.com

Joe Freeman: Coach Mac said he spoke with Maurice Lucas a couple days ago and Luke is recuperating at home and resting. "He's doing better," Mac said. Twitter.com

Mavericks owner Mark Cuban is firing criticism at a league office again, but this time he has the NFL in his crosshairs. Cuban is upset that the NFL scheduled the Dallas Cowboys' home playoff game against the Philadelphia Eagles for Saturday night, which conflicts with the Mavericks' home game against the Utah Jazz. ESPN.com

"I know we're just little pissants compared to the NFL, but seriously, the NFL is turning into the ugly American when it comes to sports leagues," Cuban said. "They don't give a crap about anybody but themselves." NFL spokesman Greg Aiello declined to respond to Cuban's comments. ESPN.com

Fans entering the arena were subjected to extra security throughout the Rose Garden facility before Tuesday night’s game. Seven metal detectors, security personnel with metal detecting wands and extra security personnel, along with the normal personnel, fanned across the North Entrance of the Rose Garden. “It’s mandated by the NBA. They’re requiring us to do this for certain games throughout the season and this just happens to be the first time,” said Chris Oxley, general manager of the Rose Quarter. “This is something that was part of a mandate prior to the start of the season.” Oregonian

Steve Nash: Full disclosure i hire @Jareddudley619 to do my pr! Twitter.com

Ex-NBA star Jayson Williams was partying at an upper East Side bar before he crashed his luxury SUV into a tree and fractured his neck, the Daily News has learned. The former NBA star, who was charged Tuesday with driving while intoxicated, stopped in at Aces & Eights Saloon on First Ave. about 1 a.m. Photos show him mugging with strangers, and a patron at the bar said his friend bought Williams at least three shots of Jameson whisky. "He seemed loose, like he was having a good time," said the patron, who requested anonymity. "He was not any different from anyone else. I mean, he wasn't sloppy drunk or falling all over the place." New York Daily News

It's unclear where Williams, 41, went next - but at 3:15 a.m., he exited the FDR Drive, jumped a curb and smashed his Mercedes-Benz SUV into a 40-foot tree near E. 20thSt. and Avenue C, sources said. Cops found him in his vehicle's passenger seat - as if to make it seem he wasn't the driver, sources said. Surveillance video showed Williams was alone, police said. New York Daily News

The ex-Nets star and city high school hoops legend suffered a minor bone break in his neck and was not paralyzed, the sources said. He also had cuts on his face. "He's not a monster," said former flame Jackie Farmer, who tried to visit him at Bellevue. "He's a very good person," said Farmer, who reconnected with Williams at Christmas and said he was in good spirits. "I don't know why this is happening to him." New York Daily News

Rory Markas, a play-by-play sportscaster who spent the past eight seasons with the Los Angeles Angels, has died. He was 54. Markas was found dead at his home in Palmdale on Monday and the cause of death was not immediately available, Angels spokesman Tim Mead said Tuesday. Markas had surgery for a blood clot on his brain in late 2008. AP

After a busy, varied broadcasting career that included a four-season stint with the Los Angeles Clippers in the 1990s, Markas joined the Angels just in time for their run to their only championship. Many remember his call to end Game 7 of the 2002 World Series when outfielder Darin Erstad circled under the San Francisco Giants' final fly ball: "Erstad says he's got it! Erstad makes the catch! The Anaheim Angels are the champions of baseball!" AP

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