Basketball from a fan perspective

Published Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday

Out of misery (covid) comes possibility ---There is no indication Kansas City will receive an NBA franchise based on the mayor’s recent letter to the NBA commissioner.  In this instance we speak of the invitation for the Raptors to consider the city as a temporary home or in the future another NBA team.  Mayor Lucas pointed out the Kansas City region contains a population base larger than four regions containing NBA teams.  Not in any order they are Salt Lake, OKC, Memphis and New Orleans.  

The last time a similar situation occurred a different city administration in Kansas City failed to act.  In 2005 Hurricane Katrina struck the gulf coast causing catastrophic loss of life and property.  Damage to the arena meant the NBA team was forced to move, the 2005-06 season would witness the Hornets (Pelicans) play in Oklahoma City.  

The effort by civic members in Oklahoma City might have laid the groundwork for the eventual purchase of the Sonics by a local group and the move to Oklahoma City.  Rest assured there is no indication a similar situation would exist should the Raptors play in Kansas City in the upcoming season. In addition to the mayor, 2 U.S. Senators, and 2 U.S. Congressman from both major parties representing Kansas and Missouri is quite interesting.  It is hoped in some circle’s success is achieved with the Raptors or an NBA team belonging to the city with Kansas City on its jersey.      

1988, opps 2020---The confusion is due to the NBA Champion and World Series winner.  In 1988 as 2020 the Lakers won championship number 17; the Dodgers won their 7th championship.  This is an unusual accomplishment in the the same year, outstanding for one city.   

We have new leadership in Houston---The front office changes in Houston are complete, Rafael Stone was hired as general manager replacing Daryl Morey.  Stone reached out to the Mavs and hired assistant Stephen Silas as the new head coach for the Rockets.  What does the future hold for the team with this new front office and coach?  In my view the Rockets are probably in a worst way than numerous NBA teams. 

The statement is made because it is my belief they are in the middle of the pack, they are not a bad team, but they are not good.  Exactly what is the definition, they are decent enough to earn a playoff berth but not effectively compete for an NBA Championship.  We can make this statement about the Rockets, “the sum is greater than the parts” with this team.  How patient will owner Tilman Ferititta be with this new combo gm and head coach?  Hopefully, he gives them time to restructure. 

Speaking of Daryl Morey---I ain’t mad a Daryl Morey but, it seems just as soon as he resigns as GM of the Rockets, he manages to secure another job.  Morey’s been hired as president of the Sixers which certainly was a smooth move.   Did he feel as though time ran out on the “small ball” experiment with the Rockets?  Rest assured there are probably areas Morey excels, we are not exactly sure if this extends into the realm of player development.  I know the idea to go small wasn't his alone Mike D'Antoni's fingerprints are on the move too.  

A third thing added---For those reading this account outside the U.S. you might not be familiar with this next term.  An adage says, “There are two things we are sure of death and taxes," please allow the addition of a third thing:   

Death

Taxes

Laker Haters

I’m unsure if we can refer to Pat Riley as a hater but he certainly threw shade in the direction of the Lakers regarding their championship.  There have been others former players, members of the media even a few with NBA connections.  Is there a need on my part to defend the Lakers, probably not?  I must state my chief concern is the failure by these critics to realize what it takes to win a championship.