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

The Boston Celtics’ annual Tip-Off Gala — a formal-wear event that both raises money for the Shamrock Foundation and previews the upcoming season — has turned into a bit of a fashion show for the team’s players.

[…]

Before the majority of his team’s players had arrived Thursday at the Westin Hotel in Boston’s seaport district, Celtics president of basketball operations Danny Ainge was asked who the best dressed player on the team was. He sagely noted, “[Rajon] Rondo’s pretty tough to beat. But there’s some new guys that I haven’t seen.”

Newcomer Marcus Thornton made a strong bid and was maybe the early leader in the fashion clubhouse thanks to his derby. But Rondo, the final player to arrive, swiped the award with help from designer wear featuring a black bowtie, blue blazer, and an accent scarf.

“[Fashion has] always been inside of me,” said Rondo. “From Day 1, I’ve always been particular about my clothes. I can remember going to middle school, I would iron my clothes the night before, try to put my look together. [My fashion sense] is growing more and more each year, and now being exposed to going to GQ events, going to Fashion Week, and meeting a lot of new designers or top designers, have helped my inspiration grow even more.”

Asked who the best dressed player on the team was, Rondo quipped, “Besides myself?” before complimenting teammate Brandon Bass.

ESPN Boston – Rondo steals show at Tip-Off Gala

Maybe I just forgot from last year, but I had no idea the C’s held an annual Tip-Off Gala. NBA player fashion is perhaps the strangest sub-culture the sport has, with Russel Westbrook, Jordan Crawford, Tyson Chandler, and Dwyane Wade probably headlining the absurdity (there aren’t many photos available yet, but I’ll try to add any if we come across them). The other (and main) goal of the Gala was to raise funds for the C’s Shamrock Foundation. The charity tries to help the city in several ways from the Boys and Girls Club, making frequent visits to Children’s Hospital, and offering unique programs for kids. It’s cool to see the charity work tied into an event that also kicks off the Celtics season. While we don’t have championship expectations, there’s a much better buzz around this team that last year. It seems like everyone’s saying the right thing and learning to play as a team, instead of “getting theirs”, as Jared Sullinger put it.

Unfortunately the ridiculously hard schedule to start the year may damage the spirits a bit.

Page 2: Steve Nash out for the year, career could be over

Nash will miss the entire season because of a back injury, the Lakers announced Thursday, putting the two-time NBA MVP point guard’s career in doubt.

The Lakers and the 40-year-old Nash announced their joint decision less than a week before the start of the regular season. He played in only 15 games last season with nerve root irritation but hoped for a comeback season after several months of rehabilitation.

The Canadian star played in just three preseason games, feeling more back pain in the second outing. He then strained his back while carrying travel bags several days ago.

“Being on the court this season has been my top priority, and it is disappointing to not be able to do that right now,” Nash said. “I work very hard to stay healthy, and unfortunately my recent setback makes performing at full capacity difficult. I will continue to support my team during this period of rest and will focus on my long-term health

ESPN – Steve Nash of Los Angeles Lakers to miss entire season

I don’t believe Nash has made an official decision as to what this means for his playing career, but many are considering this the final straw. At 40 years-old, it’s a bummer Nash never reached the level of NBA champion, but it shouldn’t take an ounce away from the incredible career he had. Maybe at 41 he’ll join a contender (Mavs?) midway through the season and try to winone, or maybe he’ll transition into a coaching role in a few years. Regardless of when/if we’ll see Nash around the NBA again, the past 18 years have been much better because of him (even thought I was three when he started playing).

And Andrew Wiggins was only one…

And finally, Walter McCarty facing larceny charges

Per the Celtics official website:

BOSTON – Celtics Assistant Coach Walter McCarty released the following statement today: “This matter stems from ordering some kitchen cabinets for a home that my family and I are building. We hope to resolve the matter soon, but I simply cannot comment further while the case is pending.”

Celtics.com – Walter McCarty statement

Strange.

The rest of the links:

Grantland – The definitive NBA celebrity index 

ESPN – Nets and talks to deal Teague to Sixers

Masslive – Jarrell Eddie claimed by C’s after getting waived by Atlanta Hawks