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Saturday, February 20

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Last update: 6:50 pm ET

And then, after all that, after neon signs flashing an imminent departure, Boozer went absolutely nowhere. He's the starter, Millsap is coming off the bench, though getting 27.3 minutes a game and in the opening lineup Friday with Mehmet Okur in Utah for the birth of his first son. "That's part of the business, man," Boozer said after getting 30 points and 16 rebounds in the 100-89 victory over the Warriors. "It ain't the first time my name has been thrown around. But happy to be here. We landed in Oakland and I was still part of the team, so I was excited about that. "I live in Miami in the offseason, so a lot of friends in Miami were crossing their fingers. A lot of my friends in Utah were crossing their fingers. When we landed, I was happy to still be a part of the team. But losing Brewer was terrible. I can't stress that enough. He's a brother to a lot of us in here and he was obviously a huge part of our team. It's tough. It's just tough to move on." NBA.com

And what would it take to ensure he doesn't in the summer either? "I don't know," Boozer said. "We'll find out in July. I'm not going to think about that, worry about that. We've still got 20-something games, playoffs, and a whole lot of basketball left. I'll worry about that when the time is right." NBA.com

Q: Now that New York will have the cap room to sign two max free agents, percentage wise, what do you think the chances are that Dwayne leaves Miami? — Mike. Ira Winderman: I’m putting it at 75 percent that Dwyane will stay. But, to be honest, a 25-percent chance that your franchise player could leave is a frighteningly high percentage. So it is of the essence that all Heat fans shower Dwyane with gifts the rest of the season. I believe he likes a nice box of chocolates. South Florida Sun-Sentinel

The Houston Rockets waived forward Brian Cook Saturday and signed guard Garrett Temple to another 10-day contract. Cook, in his seventh year in the NBA, appeared in just 15 games for the Rockets this season at an average of three minutes per contest. He has career averages of 5.8 points and 2.7 rebounds in 349 games with the Lakers, Magic and Rockets. TSN

Nathan Jawai has played only 16 minutes since Jan. 20, so the Wolves assigned the second-year center to Sioux Falls, their Development League affiliate, for the weekend. With Wolves Vice President Fred Hoiberg in attendance, Jawai played nearly 30 minutes as the Skyforce beat Dakota on a tip-in at the overtime buzzer Friday. He scored six points on 3-for-7 shooting with three rebounds. Jawai will play in the rematch Saturday, then return to the Twin Cities for Sunday's Wolves game. "It's not punishment, it's not a demotion," Rambis said. "It's an opportunity to play, and that's what he needs." Minneapolis Star Tribune

Kirk Hinrich played his 487th career NBA game Friday night, which is only slightly more than the number of trade rumors to which he has been linked. And still the longest-tenured Bull remains, praised by general manager Gar Forman as a "glue guy" in the wake of the trade deadline. "I guess they appreciate what I do and I'm going to try to keep doing it," Hinrich said in typically understated fashion. "I'm glad I'm still here. This is where I wanted to be. And we're set to have a strong finish." Chicago Tribune

There was some confusion over when the clock starts ticking for Zydrunas Ilgauskas. Ilgauskas, 34, was traded to the Wizards on Wednesday in a three-team, six-player deal. According to a league spokesman, Ilgauskas can return to the Cavaliers 30 days from when all conditions of the trade are satisfied — once all players pass the physicals and the league office notifies the teams it’s official. That happened on Friday, so the earliest he could return to the Cavs is March 21. Ilgauskas flew to Washington on Friday to take his physical. He is still awaiting word on whether the Wizards will buy him out of his contract. Morning-Journal

Celtics coach Doc Rivers didn't feel the team needed a shake-up after posting a 10-10 record in the last 20 games. "I would've been fine if we hadn't ... we'll see whether that's the right decision or not," said Rivers. "I like this team, I've said it over and over again. I didn't think we needed to make changes." Asked Rajon Rondo about his thoughts on the trade, he first declined, seemingly frustrated. "I don't know, I don't know," said Rondo on whether the team needed to make a trade. "I hope it's for the best. Eddie House can drop 20, 30 [points off the bench] too. But [the players] don't make decision, we just play the game." NBA.com

Kurt Rambis would love that, too. But right now, his goals for the Great Darko Experiment are much more modest."I want him to have a positive experience here. That's all," the Wolves coach said Friday after spending the afternoon outlining his offense for Milicic. "I want him to feel good about this environment, this franchise. Feel good about his abilities on the floor. Get him playing, get him having fun again, get him feeling good about basketball again. We'll deal with what comes out of it after that." Minneapolis Star Tribune

Milicic, reportedly disappointed that the Knicks chose to trade him rather than buy out his soon-to-expire contract, arrived in Minnesota on Friday in time for a pep talk -- and playbook primer -- with Rambis. He was given the option of suiting up for that night's game with Chicago, but chose to remain on the inactive list. Rambis said he was satisfied, after an afternoon meeting, that Milicic is willing to give the Wolves a chance. "I think he's positive. He's willing to come in with open eyes, with an open mind, and see what happens," Rambis said. Minneapolis Star Tribune

Milicic declined to speak to reporters, and Rambis said he doesn't know if the Serbian center, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2003 draft, will suit up Sunday against Oklahoma City. And he didn't even ask about Milicic's public stance that he intends to quit the NBA and play in Europe once his contract expires in June. "I don't know about that. We'll just take it one step at a time," Rambis said. Does Love expect Milicic to stay? "If he didn't like it in New York, I don't know where he's going to like it," Love joked. "New York's a pretty special place. Not that this isn't, but that's the city that never sleeps." Minneapolis Star Tribune

Tracy McGrady will be in the starting lineup in his New York Knicks debut on Saturday night against Oklahoma City. Coach Mike D'Antoni says he doesn't know what the complete lineup will be, but it will include McGrady. The Knicks acquired the seven-time All-Star on Thursday in a three-team deal with Houston and Sacramento. AP

I asked him how improvisational it got with two new players on the court when it counted, and not having practiced. Larry said it reminded him of "run to the fire hydrant, and cut left'' touch football. If that sounds like an exaggeration, you should know this: Tyrus Thomas said he forgot everything he heard in a pre-game cram session, yet still had a major impact on the game. Just shows how much you can accomplish if you play hard and play smart, even without a rehearsal. Charlotte Observer

At one point it seemed as if every Pistons guard had an ankle sprain. So Kander did some investigating and has banned the shoes that Hamilton, Ben Gordon and Will Bynum had been wearing early in the season. "I'm not going to name the brand of shoe it was, but it has been banned from our locker room and the guys aren't allowed to wear it," Kander said. "These shoes had taken most of the support out of the sides and it was a lighter shoe. Most basketball shoes weigh between 1.4 and 1.7 pounds. "These shoes were weighing 0.8 pounds, which was way too light as far as side support. Since we've banned the shoe, knock on wood, we haven't had any ankle sprains. Hopefully, the good Lord willing, we won't have any more and we can finish the season healthy and see what these guys can really do. "We've had a couple of bumps and bruises, but nothing like we had the first part of the season." Detroit Free Press

Kander had proof that it was the shoes, because when he initially told Bynum, Hamilton and Gordon to stop wearing them, Bynum continued, until he suffered another sprained ankle. "In fact he sprained both ankles," Kander said. "The second time he sprained his ankle he stopped wearing them and he has been better." Among the top in his field, when Kander speaks, players listen. Even former Pistons who return to the Palace solicit Kander's words of wisdom. He probably took it personally when the players started suffering ankle injuries because he prides himself on having the players eat, drink and live healthy. "For 2 1/2 months it was as bad as I've ever seen here," Kander said. Detroit Free Press

“Roy doesn’t look right,” said one. “I know,” barked the other. “He was limping!” Indeed it doesn’t take an expert to see that Brandon Roy is hurt—the preceding conversation took place somewhat drunkenly in the men’s bathroom. But that conversation was replicated everywhere Friday. From chat rooms to press row, everyone was asking: Roy doesn’t look right, so why is he playing? The sentiment even popped up in the Celtics locker room. Unprompted, Kevin Garnett added “Brandon looks hurt—I’m just being honest,” (:23) to a question about Marcus Camby. Portland Roundball Society

Kobe Bryant, who has missed the last five games with a sprained left ankle, practiced Saturday and said he plans on playing Tuesday when the Lakers play at Memphis. Bryant will have been out for 18 days since he last played in a game. He said the ankle was still sore after practice Saturday. Still, when asked if he was playing on Tuesday, Bryant smiled. "I should be. If not I'm firing everybody," Bryant said. "It's been long enough." Los Angeles Times

Memphis Grizzlies swingman Ronnie Brewer suffered a partially torn right hamstring during Friday's game against Miami. The team announced Saturday that an MRI exam confirmed the injury and Brewer will be out indefinitely. A timetable for his return will be set after an evaluation next week. AP

Grizzlies owner Michael Heisley reacted with sadness but said he won't panic after learning recently acquired swingman Ronnie Brewer has a partially torn hamstring. Brewer will miss at least three weeks. "It's not as bad as the one Allen Iverson had," Heisley said, referring to the similar injury that kept Iverson out a month in training camp. "But I promise you one thing. We're not bringing him back until he's ready. Just like we did with Allen. I have a responsibility to my players. I feel that way. I don't want to endanger his career. It is a serious injury. But I think he'll be back earlier rather than later like we first thought." Memphis Commercial Appeal

Lakers forward Luke Walton,sidelined indefinitely for the second time this season because of a pinched nerve in his back, said surgery is "definitely an option." "Obviously, surgery would mean I'm done for the season," Walton said. "I'd rather just let it calm down and start playing again in March or April, get ready for the playoffs and see if I can help the team win another championship. But one of the options is having big-time back surgery. Hopefully I won't have to make that decision until the summertime." Los Angeles Times

Sasha Vujacic had improved his play and survived the trade deadline with more court time in the offing given Luke Walton’s injury … and now Vujacic is hurt. Vujacic is expected to miss at least two weeks with a sprained right shoulder suffered in a collision with Boston’s Kendrick Perkins on Thursday night. “It’s frustrating,” said Vujacic, whose absence in addition to Walton’s back problem opens the door for Adam Morrison to play some. Kobe Bryant’s expected return from his ankle injury will fill most of Vujacic’s minutes, though. Orange County Register

Woody, subdued and contemplative at this morning’s light practice, acknowledged that his strategy of playing his starters heavy minutes was a big factor in the Hawks’ loss to the Suns last night. “I did something last night I haven’t done all year in terms of playing six guys,” he said. “I really thought we could beat those guys like that but it backfired on me because their second unit beat us.” The Suns’ reserves took it to the Hawks in the fourth quarter. The Hawks’ reserves other than sixth man Jamal Crawford watched the entire second half from the bench. Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Rick Bonnell: I doubt Michael Jordan ends up with the Bobcats, which might mean a lot of people lose their jobs. Higgins would be among those who might go. I suspect he thinks I don't think much of him. But if anyone asked me for a job recommendation, I'd say Rod is smart, patient, and deserves more authority. Charlotte Observer

Atlanta Spirit co-owner Steve Belkin has until Thursday to pay $2 million or he risks losing his stake in the partnership, Montgomery County (Md.) Circuit Court documents say. Belkin has agreed to post the money, his attorney said. The eight-man group -- which owns the Hawks, Thrashers and Philips Arena operating rights -- have been fighting in court since 2005 over how much seven of the partners should pay Belkin to buy out his 30 percent stake in the group. A judge ruled in August that the contract that outlined the buyout process was too ambiguous -- and that the Spirit should resume operations as it was before 2005. Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Detlef Schrempf: The plan that night was to attend at least one of the many parties and we went on to Magic and Zo’s billiard party to support the relief effort in Haiti. Over 2000 people showed up – and all the celebs were out to play. The music was so loud my ears were ringing for 2 days! The next day I helped build a playground at an elementary school (not much work in 1 h, but the actually work crew did a fantastic job and most of the work), met with NBA.com about hosting their German website, went to the NBA Partner Reception and on to the FedEx dinner (a group I have gotten to know well over the years). Afterwards I stopped by the TNT All Star Reception and had planned on going to Dirk Nowitzki and Jason Terry’s party. At that point it was already late and I was not very excited to head out to an airport hangar in the snow. Detlef Schrempf

Following the brunch I was a last minute substitute for the NBA 80’s Round Table with Bill Walton, Kevin McHale, Daryl Dawkins and Michael Ray Richardson. I felt a little out of place because even though I played against all of them it was at the tail end of their careers. Some funny stories were told and you can check it out on NBA TV. Of course I have a couple more Daryl Dawkins suits for you: Getting to the All-Star game that evening only took us a little over an hour compared to some people who spend 2+ hours in traffic. 108,000 people attended - Guinness Book world record! Detlef Schrempf

Last update: 8:30 am ET

Von Wafer went through a workout for the Mavericks on Friday but management wasn't divulging any news about the workout. There may have been other players going through the drills, but Wafer, the former Rocket, was the only one whose identity was known for sure. Fort Worth Star-Telegram

The second player, according to a league source, was Rashad McCants. Not sure how either he or Von Wafer looked, but there's no signings imminent, apparently. Fort Worth Star-Telegram

Jonathan Feigen: Correction on Brian Cook. He'll be waived, not bought out. The Rockets are waiting to get most games possible in Temple's 10 days. Twitter.com

NBA sources told FOX 26 Sports Friday the Houston Rockets will waive forward Brian Cook. Cook, who saw very little action for the Rockets this season, played in 15 games and averaged 1.4 points. The Rockets have the maximum of 15 players on their Roster. By waiving Cook it will give the team a spot it could use on guard Garrett Temple, whose initial 10-day contract expired. FOX 26 Sports

Sources told FOX 26 the Rockets are considering signing Temple to a second 10-day contract. FOX 26 Sports

With the trade deadline gone, the current roster is the one the Nets will go forward with, the only exception being if the team buys players out of their contracts. Kiki Vandeweghe said he doesn’t expect any buyouts imminently, but he wouldn’t rule it out. “I think we’re open to anything,’’ he said. “Our philosophy has always been we like our players, we want to help them, if an opportunity arises. We certainly don’t want to hurt our team doing it, but sometimes that (buyout) happens.’’ Newark Star-Ledger

Wendell Maxey: according to blazers nba scout, Portland currently compiling list to fill their 15th spot. Twitter.com

As for the 15th roster spot, the Blazers are being somewhat coy, at least for now. Options on the table include D-Leaguers, guys that were waived over the past week and, perhaps, guys that have not been waived or bought out yet. Coming up with a list of names that fall in that last category is a particularly fun exercise which I encourage you to take part in. Multiple sources expect the 15th spot will be filled rather than left open but there are conflicting thoughts about the potential timeline for filling the spot. This is another decision that might hinge in part on Roy's health. Blazers Edge

The Jazz have another week or so before they must add a requisite 13th player to fill the roster spot left vacant by Thursday's trade of starting shooting guard Ronnie Brewer to Memphis. They'll take their time doing so, general manager Kevin O'Connor suggested Friday. O'Connor said the Jazz will monitor other teams' transactions should someone be waived and became available that way, they'll weigh a call-up from the NBA Development League and they'll consider a free-agent signing as well. "If we could find somebody who had NBA experience," he said, "we would look at that if we felt we could find somebody who could help with what we're doing." Deseret News

With Deron Williams, Ronnie Price and rookie Sundiata Gaines already on the roster, the Jazz have no interest in a fourth point guard. Beyond that they're open to adding a wing player or a big man, but O'Connor said that at this point in the season it could be "difficult" to find a serviceable big who could play behind Carlos Boozer, Mehmet Okur and Paul Millsap but ahead of Kyrylo Fesenko and Kosta Koufos. Jazz coach Jerry Sloan said the Jazz do have needs, "but we're not gonna get it." Deseret News

With about $32 million in available cap room, that could mean signing two players this offseason from a group that includes James, Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh, Amare Stoudemire and Joe Johnson. Or, as Carton pointed out, maybe waiting until 2011, when Carmelo Anthony and Kevin Durant could be on the market. "I'm not looking at any one player. There will be a list, as of July 1, that will say 'Here are the free agents' and then we're going to go after the best guys on that list," Walsh said. "But I don't know who's going to be out there so I'm not focused on any one person." New York Post

"I'm a guy who has made a lot of money in my career," McGrady said. "I could retire right now and be fine financially. My kids can be fine. Money is not an issue. [If] these guys want to bring in a LeBron [James] and D-Wade [Dwyane Wade], along with a Chris Bosh or an Amare' Stoudemire, I'd be a damn fool not to want to stay here. I would definitely embrace the opportunity where money is not an issue." The Knicks have room for just two maximum free agents, but the seven-time All-Star said he hopes the Knicks can be financially creative. McGrady hinted he would play for a midlevel ($5.9 million) or biannual ($1.9 million) exception to play with James. "Don't get me wrong, if I come back healthy and playing well, we're going to do some negotiating," McGrady said. "What I'm saying is, if LeBron comes, D-Wade comes and you pair [one of them] up with Stoudemire or Chris Bosh, I know I'm not going to get the big bucks. "But," McGrady added. "Save a little for me." New York Post

Houston Rockets guard Jermaine Taylor has been reassigned to the Rio Grande Valley Vipers, Houston’s NBA D-League affiliate, it was announced today. Taylor’s reassignment is the 20th time an NBA player has been assigned to an NBA D-League affiliate this season. Sportando

Appearing a guest on The Big Show Friday afternoon, Danny Ainge indicated that the Celtics had discussions about acquiring Amar’e Stoudemire from Phoenix and Kevin Martin from Sacramento. “We did talk about getting Stoudemire,” Ainge said. “I got a sense [Phoenix wasn't] getting the things they wanted. I think they would have moved him, but I think they like Amare. He’s a terrific player and they didn’t get what they wanted.” WEEI.com

I’m a little surprised that [Amar'e] Stoudemire stayed in Phoenix. We did talk about Stoudemire, but I got a sense immediately that they weren’t getting the things that they wanted and I think they were frustrated. I think they would have liked to have moved him, but I think they like Amar’e and even heard rumors that they were trying to extend Amar’e with a two or three year contract extension. He is a terrific player and they just didn’t get what they wanted. WEEI.com

Did you have interest in Kevin Martin? Ainge: Yes, we did have interest in Kevin Martin. There was the rumor with [Caron] Butler and [Antawn] Jamison. Jamison didn’t seem to make much sense. Did you really have interest in him? Ainge: Well everyone has interest in Jamison, he is a terrific player. But because of his age and his contract it was prohibited for us to get involved with him, so there was never discussion of that. Did you like Butler? Ainge: We did like Butler and we did have some discussions about him. He is a terrific player — he is young and athletic and his contract — so we did try to see if we could do something with him. WEEI.com

When Martin signed with Fegan during his time out because of injury this season, the pairing was problematic. Petrie's experience with Fegan in June during the Rubio saga was somewhat contentious, and suddenly here came the prospect of dealing with him again. And one last clarification about Martin and the lead-up to his departure: it's not as simple as saying he wanted out of Sacramento. He, like so many players around the league who play on subpar teams, was simply dreaming of greener grass. Rather than languish with an organization he wasn't sure could turn it around anytime soon, he wanted to be shipped to a contender. Sacramento Bee

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Stoudemire said he would remain professional, and the organization hailed him for not being a problem. But there was enough concern about the damage done that Suns General Manager Steve Kerr and Managing Partner Robert Sarver had dinner with Stoudemire and his agent, Happy Walters, on Thursday night. Stoudemire said he got questions answered and "a few things off my chest." "There's no ill will at all toward the organization, so we feel confident about the decision that was made as far as not trading me, and we're looking to have a successful season," Stoudemire said. "It's nothing personal at all. It's really business. Arizona Republic

"Whatever situation I was going to be presented with, I was going to accept that role and do whatever it takes for that team, whether it's winning a championship for some teams that were inquiring for me or to make the playoffs, which is what we have here." Stoudemire said negotiating an extension with the Suns remains possible. He turned down an offer for two years beyond next season's option year. "Obviously, I want to have a sense of security," he said. "We haven't got to an agreement yet, but we're getting there." Arizona Republic

The deal for Nate Robinson was done several days ago, Ainge said, but he and the Knicks wanted to wait to see about other deals before finalizing the trade. On Robinson, Ainge said: “I’m fan of him as a person and I’m a fan of him as a player. I liked Eddie. We really liked Eddie House. But Nate as a player is just a more dynamic player.” WEEI.com

Nate Robinson’s agent Aaron Goodwin took some heat after the NBA fined him $25,000 in late December for publicly demanding a trade for his client. At the time, Robinson hadn’t played in 12 consecutive games and Goodwin claimed the benching by New York Knicks coach Mike D’Antoni was personal. D’Antoni denied he had a rift with Robinson, saying then he would even play “Satan” if it would help the Knicks win. Yahoo! Sports

“My job is to get my player to a place that is beneficial for him,” Goodwin said. “It was beneficial for us to get Nate in Boston. I hope Nate and his family feels the same way. “Sometimes people don’t understand the job you have to do. Sometimes you have to tick some people off to get the job done.” Yahoo! Sports

The Indiana Pacers and Charlotte Bobcats had serious talks about a trade that would have sent T.J. Ford and Brandon Rush to Charlotte for D.J. Augustin, Nazr Mohammed and Gerald Henderson. Ford, sources said, was convinced the deal was going to be completed – so much so that he started dancing in front of his teammates before the Pacers’ flight was supposed to take off. Yahoo! Sports

According to separate league sources, the Warriors rejected a proposed deal with Memphis that would have sent Monta Ellis to the Grizzlies for O.J. Mayo and 7-foot-3 rookie center Hasheem Thabeet. Another player, Hamed Haddadi, may or may not have been included in the deal. The Warriors allowed Thursday’s trading deadline to pass without making a move. General manager Larry Riley said there wasn’t anything out there he “was comfortable enough with.” CSN Bay Area

Forward Dorell Wright said he was braced for a move at Thursday's deadline, but pleased that the Heat decided his presence was more of a priority that roughly $7 million in luxury-tax savings. "I'm just happy to still be in Miami," said the sixth-year reserve, who becomes a free agent in July. "It shows they have faith in me, thinking I can bring something to this team to help win. "Whenever somebody has some trust in you, it's always good. I take that to heart." South Florida Sun-Sentinel

According to Pritchard, the Trail Blazers did what they needed to do keep pace in the Western Conference race, even if they didn’t take some of the more drastic steps teams like the Rockets, Cavaliers and Mavericks opted to take. “The Eastern Conference, there’s some high-level teams, but there’s a lot of good teams in the Western Conference that are just vying to get into the playoffs,” said Pritchard. “And I wouldn’t say it was Armageddon, but I felt like a lot of teams were willing to make changes they haven’t been in the past. I do like that it’s going to be competitive. And I’ve always said if we’re going to be the best, we’ve got to go through the best. We feel like Marcus gives us a chance to be a tough out.” NBA.com

In a brief chat today, a Blazers source expressed satisfaction -- no, strengthen that to pride -- with the Marcus Camby deal. While some buzz has been floating that the Clippers had been planning to dump Camby for months, word today was that the Blazers/Clippers talks came about relatively quickly prior to the eventual deal and that the Clippers presented themselves as more reluctant to part with Camby than might have been previously assumed. That makes some sense given Camby's expiring contract and solid production relative to his current salary. Blazers Edge

In his Cavs debut, Antawn Jamison appeared as if he'd never played an NBA game before. As it was, it was the first time he came off the bench in a game in five years, and it looked like it. He also was joining a team without getting a practice or even a shootaround to even learn the plays. That looked like it, too. Jamison was a miserable 0-of-12 from the floor in 26 minutes with seven rebounds. "I rushed a couple shots and I had a few blocked; I couldn't get into a rhythm," Jamison said. "It was one of those nights that will never happen again, I can promise you that." Cleveland Plain Dealer

"Definitely wasn't his best, but it is nothing for us to worry about," said LeBron James, who didn't look his usual self but had 22 points, nine assists and four steals. "He's a veteran, he's had bad shooting nights before. This may be his worst, but he'll shoot better next game." Cleveland Plain Dealer

Multiple team sources said Howard missed the Mavericks' Jan. 20 win over the Washington Wizards because of a hangover after a night of partying. Howard, who earlier refused comment, told ESPN 103.3 FM host Ben Rogers via text message that he was "not responding to a lie.. My lawyers ar taking action... Thanks.. That's a response." ESPN.com

Josh Howard called a report that he missed a game last month with the Dallas Mavericks because he had a hangover a “lie.” After Howard scored 20 points to help his new team, the Washington Wizards, beat the Denver Nuggets 107-97 on Friday night, he was asked about the ESPN.com report, which cited unidentified sources. Howard said, “I’m not responding to a lie.” AP

Michael Lee: Josh Howard starts at SG for Nick Young. Heard he was so sick he needed an IV & a blanket before game on 1/20. That's a serious "hangover" Twitter.com

Thornton was just happy to get 32 minutes after being limited to a little-used reserve role with the Los Angeles Clippers. As he spoke to reporters after the game, two huge boxes filled with his Clippers warm-ups and uniforms sat in front of his locker room stall. Asked what he planned to do with his old stuff, Thornton joked, "I'm probably going to burn it up." As he walked into the shower and Howard walked out, Singleton said to Howard, "That boy is country strong. We're going to have to call him 'Jethro.' " Howard laughed. He is the only former all-star on the team, but he is playing with a chip on his shoulder after two rough, injury-plagued seasons in Dallas. He said his left ankle is still hurting and won't be right until next season, but that didn't stop him from leaping into the stands to track down a loose ball. Washington Post

Caron Butler has an interesting explanation for his difficulty finishing around the basket in his first two games with the Mavericks: He has to get used to being fed easy buckets. "I’m not used to getting the ball in such great position," said Butler, who was 0-of-5 in the paint during his 6-of-16 Wednesday night. "Jason Kidd is finding you and getting you the ball, and it’s like, ‘Whoa.’ I’m getting used to that. "I don’t even have to think about trying to create for others or finding my own shot. I’m already in position. Only thing I’ve got to do is finish. It’s a new adjustment." ESPN.com

Marc Berman: T-Mac will wear No. 3 tomorrow. His jersey already available at the NBA Store Saturday. I thought Knicks had retired 3 for Steph. Twitter.com

Camby was rocking a ginormous diamond pinky ring in the locker room after the game. That's not something we've seen this year. He still has the #23 stitched onto the tongues of his shoes despite the number change to #21 with the trade. Nike: help this man out. Blazers Edge

Gasol’s math might be a little off, but he’s clearly hesitant about labeling the Celtics as a legitimate title contender. “They have to prove it themselves,” Gasol said. “It’s going to be tough. They got Orlando. They got Atlanta. They’ve struggled against Atlanta this year and got swept there. They got Cleveland, of course. You can make your own conclusions there.” Yahoo! Sports

“When you don’t work together a lot, it’s going to break,” Rivers said. “You can see the slippage long before the drought came. “We’re not close to where we want to be, but we are working on it and we are going to get there.” Yahoo! Sports

Sam Amick: Westphal on whether he'll start Landry slow with minutes: "Probably about 35 or 40. Unless it goes to overtime then he'll...get some more." Twitter.com

Westphal will start García with guard Tyreke Evans, small forward Omri Casspi, new forward Carl Landry and center Jason Thompson. It's not the first time Thompson has started at center, but it is an intriguing starting point for the three-man big rotation that is now possible with Landry. While Spencer Hawes apparently will be a reserve for the foreseeable future, Westphal said it's a good thing for the third-year center. "He has been asked to have maybe a prematurely accelerated role in some areas that it's a lot to ask for a young guy," Westphal said. "Now he'll be a more effective player because of Carl. Whether (Hawes) starts or doesn't start, I think he'll be a force for us." Sacramento Bee

Darren Collison received a good-natured ribbing from Hornets teammates about coming within two turnovers of the first quadruple-double in franchise history. Still, injured star Chris Paul handed the rookie the game ball in the locker room and the team gave him a round of applause. Collison registered his first career triple-double -- the first he could remember at any level, in fact -- with 18 points, 13 rebounds and 12 assists, and New Orleans beat the Indiana Pacers 107-101 on Friday night. AP

Without Dwyane Wade, Michael Beasley stepped into a lead role for Miami and the Heat kept their winning streak intact. Beasley scored a career-high with 30 points and the short-handed Heat won their season-best fifth straight by defeating the Memphis Grizzlies 100-87 in double overtime on Friday night. The Heat, playing without Wade (strained calf) and Rafer Alston (right hand), blew an 18-point lead in regulation than pulled away in the second overtime behind Udonis Haslem, who scored eight points in the final five minutes. "It feels good," Beasley said. "Just to get a win without our main players feels good to everybody." AP

Travis Heath: George Karl: "If we don't pass it, we're not a great team... We have a selfish disposition at times." Twitter.com

Los Angeles Clipper superstar Baron Davis has always been interested in the film business. His producing credits already include a couple of motion pictures and a documentary on gangs in L.A. Now the point guard has jumped in front of the camera for this role in "The Forgotten. The show stars Christian Slater and Michelle Borth. USA Today

Lakers star Pau Gasol and track star Allyson Felix received the highest individual honors at Friday night's Los Angeles Sports Awards. Gasol received a standing ovation from the crowd at the JW Marriott at L.A. Live when he was honored as the region's sportsman of the year for his contributions to the Lakers' NBA championship run and work in the community. "It feels great, it's obviously great recognition for me in my second year here,'' the Spaniard said. "It didn't take long for me to feel at home when I came to L.A. "Everything just clicked quickly here, in the basketball court and outside. Everybody is just so warm and giving me a great welcome. People here made me so loved.'' ESPNLosAngeles.com

Chris Douglas-Roberts said 100,000 people listened to his radio debut Thursday night. He did a two-hour show with a co-host Lake Lewis that was broadcast over the internet. The plan is to do the show every other Thursday. Newark Star-Ledger

The Jazz played Golden State without Okur, who returned to Utah for the birth of his first son. Okur flew with the team from New Orleans to California on Thursday, then flew from there to Salt Lake City on Thursday night after learning wife Yeliz was ready to deliver. A healthy Yigit Mehmet Okur arrived early Friday morning, checking in at 21 inches and eight pounds, two ounces. Yigit, pronounced "yeet," is a popular Turkish boys name that according to turkishculture.org means "brave man." Deseret News

Bosh, who made the game-winning free throw in the All-Star Game in Dallas on Sunday, hurt his ankle on Wednesday in a game against the Memphis Grizzlies in Toronto. He did not accompany the Raptors to New Jersey. Bosh's status is being listed as day-to-day. He leads the Raptors in both scoring (24.4 points) and rebounding (11.4). AP

Floyd is expected to address several topics, including an allegation by a former member of Mayo's inner circle that Floyd paid $1,000 to Mayo's former advisor, Rodney Guillory. Floyd has denied the allegation. Floyd and USC officials also are expected to be questioned about Guillory's access to the program and why Mayo was allowed on the roster after Guillory had provided free airline tickets to an ex-Trojan player, Jeff Trepagnier, in 2000. In recent interviews with The Times and New Orleans Times-Picayune, Floyd talked about his displeasure with Athletic Director Mike Garrett. Los Angeles Times

Current USC basketball assistants Bob Cantu and Phil Johnson, both of whom served under Floyd, also are expected to appear at the hearing Saturday. Johnson is coming at Floyd's request. Floyd and his legal team believe Johnson will provide information that will "help the committee," Darnell said. Floyd, now an assistant coach for the NBA's New Orleans Hornets, wants to coach a college basketball team again, and he has the opportunity in this hearing to attempt to clear his name, Darnell said. Floyd directed USC to three consecutive NCAA tournament appearances before he resigned in June. "There will always be a job waiting for someone as good as Coach," Darnell said. Los Angeles Times

To someone who says the organization has given up on this year, you would say what? Vinny Del Negro: That's false. That would never happen. It's not what myself, the staff, the organization and what the fans expect. The Chicago Bulls are one of the premier franchises ... Giving up or anything is not even mentioned. I expect us to compete at a very high level. I expect us to win games. I expect us to develop our young players like we are and continue to improve in certain areas and get these [new] guys acclimated and fight as hard as we can to find a way to continually get better and give us an opportunity to make the playoffs again. ESPN.com

Hard to imagine that with all the rumors out there, there was something that wasn’t reported. Was there anything going on that wasn’t reported? Danny Ainge: I would say that the things that are reported were probably not true, this time around. I’m not saying that is always the case. In this trading deadline, I picked up the paper one day and was reading and it was amazing to me that the things that were reported had no truth and the things that we were discussing were not being reported. There are a lot of things happening that aren’t being reported and you get to learn in this business as you deal with people who you talk to, how fast it gets out. And you kind of follow that and there are some people that you can really trust within this business and some that just can’t help themselves but talk, or there is leaks within this organization. WEEI.com

Do you ever use them to try to manipulate things? Ainge: I don’t, though I think that that does happen. I’m not sure if it is agents or teams, but I don’t think that it is helpful. There are times where you are fearful that anyone knows what you are doing because if someone else got wind of what you were trying to accomplish it could affect things. As a matter of fact, there are some things that were reported that got us real close to doing some deals and it might not have happened without them being reported. Because things that we were offering — players — and it spurs on well, maybe this team can get us that player. And then you see, well, maybe San Antonio likes this player. And there is no way to know that unless you sit down with San Antonio and ask them what players they want, and nobody wants to tip their hat unless you have a working relationship and a partnership with other teams and that can be really helpful. WEEI.com

So when your Faithful Correspondent heard through sources back in 2005 that the Celts were trying to get Antoine Walker from the Hawks, the information was taken to Ainge, who said, “I haven’t even talked to Atlanta.” He wasn’t lying, but he wasn’t really telling the truth either. Another member of the Celtics staff had made the contact. We went with Ainge’s information, and your FC and the Herald ended up looking stupid when Walker came back to the C’s for a cameo. Boston Herald

The volume of the ensuing “discussion” in Ainge’s office days later had neighbors thinking a series of jumbo jets was landing at Hanscom. It was right to be angry at being misled - “no comment” would have been better - and Ainge was trying to set a screen as he did his job. He said he understood our point, but we promised to check if his fingers are crossed before risking the readers’ trust again. Boston Herald

The Memphis Grizzlies and the Memphis Zoo are encouraging the citizens of Memphis to see all the bears in the city by bike and take part in the "2010 Tour De Grizz" on March 20 when the Grizzlies tip-off against the Golden State Warriors. Participants in the "2010 Tour De Grizz" will receive zoo general admission tickets to see Memphis's newest grizzlies at the Teton Trek exhibit at the Memphis Zoo and then hop on their bikes and take the 5.0 mile ride from the zoo to FedExForum to see another group of Grizzlies that has the city abuzz. Riders in the "2010 Tour De Grizz" will depart from the Memphis Zoo at 5:30 p.m. and be accompanied by a Memphis Police escort to ensure the safety of the participants as they make the trip to and from FedExForum. NBA.com

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