Every morning, we compile the links of the day and dump them here… highlighting the big storyline. Because there's nothing quite as satisfying as a good morning dump.
As much as coach Scott Brooks chafes at GM Sam Presti's meddling, his presence in the locker room, and his demands that the Thunder continue to improve from within, the organization is a lot more concerned with how Kendrick Perkins treats Russell Westbrook.
After arriving from the Celtics last season and being looked at as the veteran leader Oklahoma City needed to take the next step to compete for a title, Perkins went hard at Westbrook with his verbal criticisms, often saying that the Thunder's playmaker couldn't match Rajon Rondo as a playmaker. Those words didn't sit well with Westbrook, who already had been criticized for shooting too much and was the subject of a benching heard-round-the-NBA when the Thunder played the Mavs in June.
The Thunder gave Perkins a new four-year deal worth $35 million, so the team is committed to him. But it would like him to ease up on Westbrook. A lot.
Looks like Perk is trying to light a fire under Russell Westbrook. But he needs to be careful. Yes, he's a veteran player with championship experience. But he was a role player on those Celtics teams. Role players only have so much credibility.
All seemed well between the pair back in June when Perk complemented Westbrook for his handling of media criticism.
The rest of the links:
Globe – Hint of good vibrations come out of labor talks | Gavitt's impact huge (Bob Ryan) |
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