2011-12 Jazz could play big-man musical chairs

[Xiao Yao You]

http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/jazz/51512569-87/jazz-millsap-jefferson-utah.html.csp

[Xiao Yao You]

With Ak at the 4 . Can't have enough 4's on the floor. Millsap playing some at the 3 has always seemed obvious to me. Jefferson at the 5 is the problem as would Okur be assuming he plays again.

[Xiao Yao You]

[quote]Corbin on the possibility of the lineup:

[DeronMillsap]

I actually wanted to see a frontcourt lineup of SF- Millsap / PF- Favors / C- Jefferson for awhile now.

People question Millsap's ability to play the 3 but I think he can do it. Most of the time he's been playing at the highpost or upper wing area when he catches the ball. Dude has great handles, post moves and a sweet fadeaway.

[UtahJazzFan88]

I wouldn't mind it, but it would have to be used at times, not as a starting line-up to me, and if it was to be a starting line-up, Paul would have to lose 20 pounds to get into shape to guard SF's, I'd love to see Paul be a SF/PF that can be a great Sixth Man off the bench.

[Xiao Yao You]

I wouldn't mind it, but it would have to be used at times, not as a starting line-up to me, and if it was to be a starting line-up, Paul would have to lose 20 pounds to get into shape to guard SF's, I'd love to see Paul be a SF/PF that can be a great Sixth Man off the bench.

Regardless of his weight he can probably guard the position better than anyone they have other than the always fragile AK who could be gone. Artest is huge and he's an idiot.

Can't see bringing your best player off the bench either.

[UtahJazzFan88]

Well, I know Brian T. Smith of the SLTrib is an idiot, but he seems to think Corbin has something against Al now, and has been calling him out for his frustration and what not, could this mean he could be gone soon or is these media members idiots? Time well tell.

A lot of people on Twitter were talking about Jefferson's frustration/benching tonight against the Wizards.

[Xiao Yao You]

could this mean he could be gone soon

Let's hope!

[UtahJazzFan88]

Well, I know Brian T. Smith of the SLTrib is an idiot, but he seems to think Corbin has something against Al now, and has been calling him out for his frustration and what not, could this mean he could be gone soon or is these media members idiots? Time well tell.

A lot of people on Twitter were talking about Jefferson's frustration/benching tonight against the Wizards.

Well, looks like the situation is that the media members (IE: Salt Lake Tribune & Brian T. Smith) are the ones looking like total fools here, sorry to get your hopes up Xiao Yao You, but Al isn't frustrated at all with Corbin, typical reporting.

[Xiao Yao You]

Al might not be frustrated but Corbin might be. He did bench him.

[UtahJazzFan88]

With that logic, Millsap might be mad at Corbin too.

[Xiao Yao You]

Millsap was on the floor. Paul could have reason to be mad at everyone as underappreciated as he is.

[Xiao Yao You]

Reserve Kyrylo Fesenko(notes) will make only his third career start and first of the season
Friday night when the Utah Jazz face the Los Angeles Lakers.

A loss to the Lakers (54-20) officially eliminates the Jazz (36-39) from the playoffs and would make them the first team in history to start 15-5 and 27-13 and not qualify for postseason play, according to the Elias Sports Bureau.

The Jazz already have ruled out starters Andrei Kirilenko(notes), Raja Bell
(notes) and Devin Harris
(notes) because of
assorted leg injures as well as reserve guard Ronnie Price(notes).

Coach Ty Corbin said he decided to start the 7-1 Fesenko because he matches up better against Andrew Bynum(notes). Al Jefferson
(notes) moves to the power forward spot and Paul Millsap
(notes) to small forward, with
C.J. Miles(notes) and Earl Watson
(notes) starting at guard.

Talk about an epic collapse.

[UtahJazzFan88]

It's sad that I'm agreeing with Xiao Yao You for once, but I think we need to trade Jefferson, isn't going to happen, but we need someone with size that isn't Fesenko and can actually play defense.

[Xiao Yao You]

http://www.deseretnews.com/article/700125252/Utah-Jazz-Kyrylo-Fesenko-out-for-season-wants-to-return-to-Utah.html

Let's hope this is it for him.

[Xiao Yao You]

Even Tim Duncan and Richard Jefferson told Big Al they were impressed by the Millsap-Favors-Jefferson combo when the Jazz recently played the Spurs.

"I think it'd be a weapon for us to get big as a group of guys with different guys playing different positions," said Corbin, adding that it's a way to fight height when you don't have a dominant 7-foot-2 center patrolling the paint.

As for Millsap, Corbin admitted his usual starting power forward occasionally struggled to guard players in the corner

[Xiao Yao You]

I would be very surprised if (Ante Tomic) ended up playing in the NBA. And judging by what his agent told me, so would he. (http://www.hoopsworld.com/Chat.asp?CHAT_TOPICS_ID=1651) He could probably play in the NBA and be a decent backup, because he can really score, but he's not very tough and will struggle with everything that has to do with defense and rebounding. I think he's probably better suited physically and mentally for Europe and he'll be paid more over there anyway.

[Xiao Yao You]

Brian T. Smith: Jazz don't plan to see Tomic in Europe. (http://*********.com/twitter_media.html) Asked for update about Tomic, Corbin said he wasn't sure how he figured into Utah's plans.

[Xiao Yao You]

O

[Xiao Yao You]

Brian T. Smith: Jazz's Corbin confirmed that Jefferson's put in serious work since offseason. (http://*********.com/twitter/media.html) Doing everything he can to improve. Twitter (http://*********.com/twitter/media.html)

[Xiao Yao You]

Corbin on Evans adding muscle weight: The offseason is staring to show now. He's a pretty serious kid about getting better.

Jefferson not just talking but proving it, and working to make himself a better defender: He is working towards it, to get stronger, to get faster, to get more athletic if he can. He's doing everything he can right now to help the process speed up a little bit.

[Xiao Yao You]

Fenerbahce Ulker president Aziz Yildirim wants to see Andrei Kirilenko on the team next season (http://www.ajansspor.com/basketbol/tbl/h/20110621/ilk_hedef_kirilenko.html?ref=rss) and has started working on it. Ajansspor.com (http://www.ajansspor.com/basketbol/tbl/h/20110621/ilk_hedef_kirilenko.html?ref=rss)

[Xiao Yao You]

Utah talked about moving forward Paul Millsap on draft night as part of a plan to open the position for Derrick Favors, the ex-Net. (http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/basketball/2011/06/25/2011-06-25_timberwolves_gm_wanted_to_lure_dukes_mike_krzyz ewski_to_minnesota_to_coach_ricky.html) Who knows, maybe Favors can earn his playing time. New York Daily News (http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/basketball/2011/06/25/2011-06-25_timberwolves_gm_wanted_to_lure_dukes_mike_krzyz ewski_to_minnesota_to_coach_ricky.html)


Be easier for him to earn playing time if they trade their best player.
(http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/basketball/2011/06/25/2011-06-25_timberwolves_gm_wanted_to_lure_dukes_mike_krzyz ewski_to_minnesota_to_coach_ricky.html)

[Xiao Yao You]

Andrei Kirilenko offered himself to Real Madrid last week to become the forward of the team. The Russian, who wants to return to Europe, asked for a contract worth 4 million euros ($5.8 million) per season. The club will not pay that much this season (http://www.marca.com/2011/07/07/baloncesto/nba/1310028414.html). Marca.com (http://www.marca.com/2011/07/07/baloncesto/nba/1310028414.html)

[Xiao Yao You]

Unlike the '99 lockout, NBA players are examining other ways to get on the court. Former teammate Deron Williams, of the New Jersey Nets, announced that he's going to take his talents to Turkey. "It's different, man, it's an option. I think it's an option that a lot of players are going to do or going to try to do." said Millsap. "With me, hopefully, if it sounds good, I might look into it. That's definitely an option. Hopefully, it will work out for him (Williams)." KSL.com

Williams is the only NBA player under contract who has committed to playing overseas during the lockout. Reports say that he'd return to the NBA once the lockout is over. With the NBA superstar committing early to play overseas, other players are sure to follow. "I'm going to look into it." said Millsap, "I'm not sure what I'm going to do yet. Either way, I'm going to be happy doing it. Overseas is something different. It's a different area out there. It would be different for me." KSL.com

Even if the lockout ends, there's no guarantees that Millsap will still be with the Jazz. "In the NBA, you never can tell. You never know. Every week I heard my name in trade rumors. You never know how that is going to go. I love Utah, it's the team that drafted me and it's a perfect fit. So, hopefully, I can help that team out." KSL.com

[Xiao Yao You]

Center Kyrylo Fesenko is considering offers to play overseas next season. A move is not imminent, though, and Fesenko has received interest from European teams in the past.


It was reported Monday (http://www.tubasket.com/noticia/El-Caja-Laboral-vuelve-a-la-carga-con-Fesenko-por-cuarta-vez/278647/84) that Spanish club Baskonia is pursuing Fesenko.

The 7-foot-1, 280-pound Fesenko averaged 2 points, 2 rebounds and 8.6 minutes last season in 53 games for the Jazz. He will become an unrestricted free agent once the NBA lockout ends and players are allowed to sign with new teams.


Fesenko, 24, is expected to play for a Mike Fratello-coached Ukraine team in the 2011 EuroBasket tournament, which is scheduled Aug. 31-Sept. 18 in Lithuaina.


Fesenko has fully recovered from a right thumb fracture that prematurely ended his 2010-11 season, forcing him to miss Utah's final five games.

Fesenko turned down an opportunity last season to sign a restricted free agent offer sheet with Houston, instead opting to re-sign with the Jazz. He entered camp slimmed down and highly motivated, but never fulfilled his preseason promise. Fesenko scored a season-high 11 points on 5-of-8 shooting and grabbed seven rebounds Feb. 7 during a come-from-behind road victory against Sacramento. But he only recorded double digits in minutes four times during the next 29 games.


Fesenko expressed interest during April about re-signing with the Jazz next season. But he also acknowledged that the 2010-11 campaign might have been his last with the only franchise that he has played for since entering the NBA in 2007.


Fesenko is expected to receive interest from several NBA teams once free agency starts. He is a young, affordable reserve big man who has yet to reach his ceiling, and would likely benefit from a change of scenery.

It is unlikely that Utah resigns Fesenko unless the Jazz free up space in a crowded frontline. Al Jefferson, Enes Kanter and Mehmet Okur are set to compete for minutes at center, while Paul Millsap, Derrick Favors and Jeremy Evans control the depth chart at power forward.

[Xiao Yao You]

Caja Laboral would have ruled out signing Fesenko, (http://baskonia.elcorreo.com/noticias/2011-07-24/lustro-giros-interiores-20110724.html) NBA free agent who last played with the Utah Jazz. El Correo (http://baskonia.elcorreo.com/noticias/2011-07-24/lustro-giros-interiores-20110724.html)

[Xiao Yao You]

Dnipro announced via official website that the team is in talks with Kyrylo Fesenko for the coming season and an agreement may be reached soon. (http://www.sportando.net/eng/europe/ukraine/29854/dnipro_close_to_signing_kyrylo_fesenko.html) The Ukrainian big man spent the last four years in NBA with Utah Jazz and is now free agent. Sportando (http://www.sportando.net/eng/europe/ukraine/29854/dnipro_close_to_signing_kyrylo_fesenko.html)

[Xiao Yao You]

Center Kyrylo Fesenko is no longer under contract with the Utah Jazz, but the Ukrainian might have a new team soon.

The 7-foot-1 big man is reportedly close to signing a deal to play on a team in his native land. According to the club's website, Ukrainian club Dnipro and Fesenko are working out a contract for the center to return home to play professionally.


Terms of the potential deal were not announced.
The 24-year-old Fesenko, who's from Ukrainian city Dnepropetrovsk, has spent the past four seasons in Utah where he averaged 2.3 points and 2.0 rebounds for the Jazz.


Though he endeared fans with his funny antics, Fesenko failed to find a consistent role with the team despite his physical presence. He shot 49.8 percent from the field but just 39.8 percent from the free-throw line in 132 NBA games with Utah.

[Xiao Yao You]

Andrei Kirilenko has talked about playing in Russia, his native country, or for teams in Europe.

[Xiao Yao You]

Jazz rookie center Enes Kanter is considering playing professional ball in China next season if the NBA lockout persists (http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/blogsjazznotes/52289126-62/kanter-lockout-ergul-nba.html.csp). Kanter's agent, Max Ergul, told The Salt Lake Tribune on Friday that his client has official offers from two Chinese teams. Ergul does not want Kanter to miss another year of basketball, and he will seriously weigh the offers if the lockout stretches into late September. "It's very interesting stuff," said Ergul, who said he could not reveal the names of the clubs because details of the negotiations are still confidential. "We'll be entertaining those ideas as well as the lockout progresses. He's a ballplayer

[Xiao Yao You]

Mete Aktas: Collective response: Enes Kanter, does not think playing in Turkey and Europe during the lockout. China will be his probably Destination League (http://*********.com/twitter/media_turkish.html). Twitter (http://*********.com/twitter/media_turkish.html)

Mete Aktas: It's true Anas Kanter has China offers. Offers also very serious (http://*********.com/twitter/media_turkish.html) ... Twitter (http://*********.com/twitter/media_turkish.html)

[El Kabong]

Be interesting to see how Kanter goes if he does end up playing in China. Certainly can't hurt him to get another year of development in before he plays NBA if the entire season ends up cancelled.

I wonder if Favors has any plans to go overseas?

[Xiao Yao You]

Makes more sense for Kanter than anyone after not playing all last year.

[Xiao Yao You]

Jazz forward Derrick Favors isn't going anywhere.



Favors' agent, Wallace Prather, said Monday that his client currently has no intention of playing in Europe or China during the NBA lockout.

[Xiao Yao You]

[URL="http://www.sports.ru/en/basketball/115803453.html"]Are you considering options with other NBA teams? I will consider any option, but Utah still have priority. I

[Xiao Yao You]

The general manager of a Turkish professional team denied reports Saturday that his club was ote]pursuing veteran Utah Jazz center Memo Okur.

Aydin Ors told Salsabasket.net, a basketball web site in Turkey, that Istanbul-based Fenerbahce Ulker did not plan to sign any new players.

Earlier in the day, the web site MixBasket reported Fenerbahce Ulker and Okur were negotiating a one-year contract, which would include an opt-out clause in case the NBA lockout is settled.

Attempts to contact Okur's agent, Marc Fleisher, were unsuccessful.

Since being taken in the second round of the 2001 draft by Detroit, Okur has played nine NBA seasons, including the last seven in Utah.

A native of Yalova, Turkey, Okur has averaged 13.7 points and 7.1 points in 617 games in his career.

He played on the Pistons' NBA championship team in 2004 and represented the Jazz in the 2007 All-Star Game.

Okur, who turned 32 in May, played only 13 games last season after rupturing his Achilles tendon in the first round of the 2010 playoffs against Denver.

He has one year and $10.9 million remaining on his contract with the Jazz.

-- Steve Luhm

Too bad. Maybe that could have turned into a buyout once(if) the NBA starts up.

[Xiao Yao You]

enes kanter has had offers from two teams in china, but that was before leagues recent mandate. now a return to turkey becomes an option (http://*********.com/twitter/media.html).

: kanter has no plans of making a decision about playing overseas until after euro basket. will then meet with his agent max ergul to discuss (http://*********.com/twitter/media.html).

[Xiao Yao You]

Brian T. Smith: Williams said Mehmet Okur might briefly join him in Turkey. (http://*********.com/twitter/media.html) Said he's fine being a one-man show without Kobe. Twitter (http://*********.com/twitter/media.html)

Brian T. Smith: Jazz's Miles said he's open to playing overseas if lockout drags on but it's not likely. (http://*********.com/twitter/media.html) In contract year and has too much at stake. Twitter (http://*********.com/twitter/media.html)


Be great if Okur went and it led to them getting rid of him for good. CJ should consider it regardless of if he gets an NBA out in his contract or not. He needs to play and it would be agreat opportunity for him and his game would fit well in Europe certainly.
(http://*********.com/twitter/media.html)

[Xiao Yao You]

Millsap To Enter Louisiana Tech Hall Of Fame (http://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/215340/Millsap_To_Enter_Louisiana_Tech_Hall_Of_Fame)

Aug 28, 2011 | Salt Lake Tribune (http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/jazz/52474149-87/millsap-tech-jazz-louisiana.html.csp)

Paul Millsap will be inducted into the Louisiana Tech Hall of Fame.

If they are smart enough not to trade him he might be hanging from the rafters in Nuclear Waste arena someday too。

[Xiao Yao You]

http://www.insidehoops.com/blog/?p=8243

Kind of stupid for him not to wait til he's 100%.Maybe they'll b abl to void his contract!

[Xiao Yao You]

Jazz forward Jeremy Evans leads the Impact Basketball League in blocks (seven), ranks second in rebounds (12) and is averaging 4.0 points on 80-percent shooting from the field after two games.


Evans' Group B team is scheduled to take on a Group C team led by Phoenix's Jared Dudley at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday in Las Vegas.


Brian T. Smith

[Xiao Yao You]

http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news;_ylt=Au1b0NBHo1Sbwq115nneZwi8vLYF?slug=ap-europeanchampionship

[Xiao Yao You]

http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/jazz/52587730-87/evans-ibl-jazz-league.html.csp

[Xiao Yao You]

Jazz forward Derrick Favors and center Al Jefferson are working out at Peak Performance Project in Santa Barbara, Calif., Favors' agent Wallace Prather said Thursday.


Utah forward Jeremy Evans said that he might join Favors and Jefferson after Evans finishes his run in the Impact Basketball League in Las Vegas.

Evans thought that Jazz guard Devin Harris would also be at P3. However, a representative for Harris said that he is staying in Dallas.

Brian T. Smith

[Xiao Yao You]

France defeated Russia by a final score of 79-71 to advance to the finals of the 2011 EuroBasket, where they will meet Spain.


Tony Parker had 22 points and four steals to lead France, while Nicolas Batum scored 19 points to go with seven rebounds and four assists.
Joakim Noah had seven points and eight rebounds.


Russia was led again by Andrei Kirilenko, who scored 21 points.

[Xiao Yao You]

Sportando: According to source close to situation, rumor on Spartak SPB close to Kirilenko is not true.AK to go to States after Eurobasket for vacation (http://twitter.com/SportandoBasket/status/115142994327375872) Twitter (http://twitter.com/SportandoBasket/status/115142994327375872)

[Xiao Yao You]

Brian T. Smith: Jazz's Jeremy Evans idolized Celtics' Kevin Garnett when he was growing up. But added, "KG, he's a little different than I expected." (http://*********.com/twitter/media.html) Twitter (http://*********.com/twitter/media.html)

[Xiao Yao You]

Spain defeated France by a final score of 98-85 to win the 2011 EuroBasket.
Tournament MVP Juan Carlos Navarro had 27 points and five assists to lead Spain, while Pau Gasol and Jose Calderon each had 17.
Tony Parker had 26 points for France in a losing effort.


Navarro was joined on the All-Tournament Team by Pau Gasol, Parker, Bo McCalebb and Andrei Kirilenko.


Via RealGM Staff Report (http://basketball.realgm.com/national/tournament/7/FIBA_European_Basketball_Championship_%28EuroBaske t%29/63/yearly_brackets)

[Xiao Yao You]

Vladimir Spivak: Andrei Kirilenko: CSKA didn't want to include NBA-out in their offer, we couldn't agree on terms (http://twitter.com/selloutxboy/status/115492541499047936). Twitter (http://twitter.com/selloutxboy/status/115492541499047936)

So it looks like early reports that AK might go to Europe with no NBA out are false?

[Xiao Yao You]

Emiliano Carchia: Talking about his future at Championat.ru,Andrei Kirilenko said he didn't decide anything yet 'I need to rest 5-7days. Then, I'll decide' (http://*********.com/twitter/media.html) Twitter (http://*********.com/twitter/media.html)

[Xiao Yao You]

http://www.deseretnews.com/article/700180913/Utah-Jazz-Andrei-Kirilenko-in-waiting-mode-for-next-career-move.html

[Xiao Yao You]

(http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/jazz/52610634-87/favors-jazz-nba-lockout.html.csp)After the season ended, Favors spent a couple weeks relaxing and clearing his mind. Then he hit the gym with Glover, putting in daily work Monday through Friday. (http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/jazz/52610634-87/favors-jazz-nba-lockout.html.csp)

[Xiao Yao You]

Brian T. Smith: Ex-Jazz's Andrei Kirilenko still talking with a few overseas teams about signing a contract if the NBA lockout continues (http://*********.com/twitter/media.html). Twitter (http://*********.com/twitter/media.html)

[Xiao Yao You]

Forward Andrei Kirilenko (30 years, 206 cm) will wear CSKA uniform again after 10-year American stint. (http://www.cskabasket.com/news/?a=news&id=10436&lang=en) The contract with the Russian National Team leader, 2011 Eurobasket All-Tournament team member is signed for three years with NBA return option. The player went through medical tests in GMS Clinic yesterday and plans to practice with the team for the first time today. cskabasket.com (http://www.cskabasket.com/news/?a=news&id=10436&lang=en)

(http://www.cskabasket.com/news/?a=news&id=10436&lang=en)
[URL="http://www.cskabasket.com/news/?a=news&id=10436&lang=en"]Andrei Kirilenko: I am glad to be back to the team where I spent the years of adolescence. It

[El Kabong]

Good deal for AK, he can leave whenever he wants, but has a long term deal in the event of a prolonged lockout, or not getting a contract he's happy with in the US. Also very cool of him to donate the money to charity.


...who became the disabled persons
Cracked me up.

[Xiao Yao You]

Yeah good deal with the unknowns of what will happen with the NBA. The foreign translations are funny. I don't notice much cuz I get it everyday In China.

[Xiao Yao You]

Brian T. Smith: No plans for Kanter to sign overseas right now. Offers from Chinese teams are off the table since rule was passed. Kanter will wait (http://*********.com/twitter/media.html) ... Twitter (http://*********.com/twitter/media.html)

[Xiao Yao You]

Jazz rookie center Enes Kanter has returned to the United States and resumed workouts with trainer Tim Grover in Chicago. Grover worked out Kanter last summer during predraft sessions. (http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/blogsjazznotes/52677663-62/kanter-nba-chicago-enes.html.csp) Utah then selected the Turkey native with the No. 3 overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft. Kanter plans to remain in Chicago for the immediate future, keeping an eye on the progress of the NBA lockout. Contract offers from Chinese professional teams are off the table. "The China thing, what happened is

[Xiao Yao You]

Tas Melas: Andrei Kirilenko, in his CSKA jersey, holding an AK-47, (http://*********.com/twitter/media.html) natch: http://bit.ly/qeJA9f (via @monilogue) Twitter (http://*********.com/twitter/media.html)

[Xiao Yao You]

Brian T. Smith: Jazz's Devin Harris said that Al Jefferson has been "working his butt off" since the offseason started. Twitter

[Xiao Yao You]

CSKA Moscow defeated Zalgiris by a final score of 87-74 in the Euroleague regular season opener.


Andrei Kirilenko had 17 points, 15 rebounds and five assists to lead CSKA, while Alexey Shved had a game-high 19 points.


Sonny Weems had 16 points for Zalgiris, while Ty Lawson had seven points and three rebounds. DeJuan Collins had 18 points off the bench for Zalgiris.

[Xiao Yao You]

Brian T. Smith: Jazz's Enes Kanter arrived in L.A. on Sunday, according to his agent. Played in pickup game Monday with Ricky Rubio, Paul Pierce, Danny Granger and Joakim Noah, agent said. (http://*********.com/twitter/media.html) Kanter plans to stay in L.A. for at least a week. Kanter's recent workouts with Tim Grover in Chicago went well, but time is right for Kanter to start playing against real competition. Twitter (http://*********.com/twitter/media.html)

[Xiao Yao You]

Andrei Kirilenko was named Euroleague MVP for Week 1 of the Regular Season.


Kirilenko led CSKA Moscow to an 87-74 win over Zalgiris, in which he had 17 points, 15 rebounds, five assists and four blocks.


Kirilenko's FIC of 27.0 was comfortably the best of week.


Henry Domercant, Jaka Lakovic, Milos Teodosic and DeJuan Collins rounds out the top-five in FIC.

[Xiao Yao You]

Jefferson working hard: Oh, Al's been doing a tremendous job. I know he's been to Santa Barbara since May. I've gone through the workouts with him, so I know extensively how hard he's working and I think people will be really surprised when we get back to work to see how good of shape he's in and the weight that he's dropped.- Devin Harris

[Xiao Yao You]

Laettner's Villains Defeat Big Blue All-Stars At Rupp Arena (http://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/216179/Laettners_Villains_Defeat_Big_Blue_All_Stars_At_Ru pp_Arena)

Oct 25, 2011 11:34 AM EDT
http://basketball.realgm.com/images/basketball/5.0/team_logos/ncaa/kenty_40.gif Christian Laettner's Villains team defeated the Big Blue All-Stars by a final score of 152-149 in overtime at Rupp Arena on Monday.
Laettner became a villain in Kentucky lore in the 1992 East regional final when he stomped on Aminu Timberlake just a few minutes before hitting a buzzer-beating jumper on a baseball pass from Grant Hill.
Laettner played up the theatrics on Monday and was ejected with two ceremonial technical fouls.
"That's just part of my personality," he said. "And I think it's something that made me good. ... You have to feed off that a little bit."
Laettner suggested UK fans were justified in their disdain. "They should be mad at me for what I did to their team," he said. "... The average everyday person loved that (UK) team."
The Villains were led by former Florida star Corey Brewer's 32 points, while Jodie Meeks had 42 points.


Enes Kanter made his Rupp Arena debut in the game.



Via Lexington Herald-Leader (http://www.kentucky.com/2011/10/25/1933645/the-villains-vs-the-big-blue-all.html)

[Xiao Yao You]

http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/blogsjazznotes/52837992-62/played-kanter-nba-jazz.html.csp

[Xiao Yao You]

Brian T. Smith: #UtahJazz's Enes Kanter is still considering playing overseas if #NBA #lockout continues. Will explore options in Spain and China. Twitter

Brian T. Smith: Connection with Ricky Rubio could lead Kanter to Spain if lockout continues. Nothing imminent, though. Twitter

[Xiao Yao You]

Brian T. Smith: Confirmation: #UtahJazz's Enes Kanter expected to match up against Al Jefferson for tonight's game. Twitter

[Xiao Yao You]

Like Burks, Jazz forward Derrick Favors said he hasn't paid attention to the ins-and-outs of the negotiations. "I don't know what's going on right now, so I'm just sitting around waiting," said Favors, who has actually stayed busy bulking up and working on his skills. "I don't even talk to my agent about it. I just wait for the call. That's all I want to do (play hoops)." Deseret News

[Xiao Yao You]

Jody Genessy: Jazz forward Jeremy Evans wants a deal to be signed pronto: "I just think it's silly that we're fighting over so much money." Twitter

[Xiao Yao You]

Jody Genessy: Al Jefferson said he's been in Santa Barbara training all summer long. He is in much better shape. He'll stay in SB until lockout ends. Twitter

[Xiao Yao You]

http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/blogsjazznotes/52867472-62/favors-derrick-lake-looks.html.csp

Sounds like it's time to dump Jefferson and Okur!

[Xiao Yao You]

Brian T. Smith: #UtahJazz's Enes Kanter is already re-evaluating overseas options. Kanter wants to play somewhere and is tired of waiting around. Spain, China remain Kanter's most viable options. Decision not imminent, but talks could pick up later this week. Twitter

[Xiao Yao You]

http://blogs.*********.com/blogs/sierra/2011/11/15/kanter-in-wait-and-see-mode/

[Xiao Yao You]

Kanter in wait-and-see mode

November 15, 2011 @ 1:27 pm by Jorge Sierra

[Xiao Yao You]

Enes Kanter is being targeted by Olympiakos in Greece. Sportdog

[Xiao Yao You]

Brian T. Smith: Kanter's definitely open to the move but everything about the situation has to be right. He needs the experience, though, and is being pushed to remain active. Saying the lockout hurts Kanter's development is an understatement. Twitter

[Xiao Yao You]

Kirilenko Named Week 5 Euroleague MVP

Nov 18, 2011 11:04 AM EST

Andrei Kirilenko has been named Euroleague MVP for Week 5 of the regular season.

Kirilenko has 17 points on just three shots from the floor, shooting 12-for-13 from the free throw line. Kirilenko had nine rebounds, six steals and two assists in CSKA's 77-66 win.

Kirilenko also won the award in Week 1.

Via RealGM Staff Report


Read more: http://basketball.realgm.com/news#ixzz1e9bG6k5Z

[Xiao Yao You]

Former Utah Jazz forward Andrei Kirilenko, who has been dominating Euroleague play this fall for Russian powerhouse CSKA Moscow, slammed his head on the court during a Russian league game against Krasnye Krylye on Saturday. SportsRU.com reported that Kirilenko suffered a concussion, broke his nose and will undergo further medical examination. It's not yet known how long he will be sidelined.

CBSSports.com

Karina Kvasniova: Kirilenko is expected to miss 2-3 matches after last night's injury and will wear special mask to protect his broken nose. via @selloutxboy Twitter

Not sure he is a former Jazzman yet. But, the injuries continue with him.

[Xiao Yao You]

Former Jazz forward Andrei Kirilenko broke his nose and injured his left shoulder Saturday during a CSKA Moscow game.
CSKA's website said a postgame medical examination by doctors "did not reveal a concussion." However, Kirilenko will undergo additional tests during the next few days, with "special attention" paid to his shoulder.
Video
Kirilenko has excelled while playing overseas during the NBA lockout and was recently named weekly MVP of the Euroleague.
The longtime Jazz player will be an unrestricted free agent when the NBA's work stoppage ends.

Brian T. Smith

[Xiao Yao You]

Agent Marc Fleisher speaks Monday about former Jazz forward Andrei Kirilenko's recent injury.
Fleisher on what he knows about Kirilenko's injury and whether he received a concussion, which some media outlets reported: "I talked to him about 45 minutes after it happened. He told me he did not suffer a concussion. He said he broke his nose and had some bruises.

[Xiao Yao You]

[quote]Mark Fleisher, agent for Mehmet Okur:

[Xiao Yao You]

Andrei Kirilenko, now that a new CBA is reached in NBA and the lockout is over, will return to US, according to sources close to the situation. The Russian forward, who signed a multi-year deal with CSKA Moscow, wants to pen a multi-year deal in NBA where he has played for 10 years with Utah Jazz. Sportando

[Xiao Yao You]

Emiliano Carchia: As per sources close to situation, Andrei Kirilenko will leave CSKA Moscow and try to sign a multi-year deal with Nets, Jazz or Los Angeles Twitter

Wonder if that's the Lakers or Clipps. Could make sense for either of course as he could almost anywhere with his versatility.

[Xiao Yao You]

Emiliano Carchia: As per sources close to situation, Andrei Kirilenko will leave CSKA Moscow and try to sign a multi-year deal with Nets, Jazz or Los Angeles Twitter

[Xiao Yao You]

Former Jazz forward Andrei Kirilenko has not made a decision about returning to the NBA and is still a member of CSKA Moscow, agent Marc Fleisher told The Salt Lake Tribune on Monday.

Salt Lake Tribune

Kirilenko plans to remain with CSKA until the NBA's labor situation clears up and details about what is expected be a chaotic free agency period are made concrete. "He and I have decided to evaluate the NBA interest versus what he has over there and then a decision will be made," Fleisher said.

Salt Lake Tribune

Kirilenko will be an unrestricted free agent once the lockout ends. Recent media reports claimed that Kirilenko had already made up his mind about returning to the NBA and had even narrowed down his ideal choice of teams. "I asked Andrei where all that stuff comes from and he said, 'I have no idea,' " Fleisher said.

Salt Lake Tribune

[Xiao Yao You]

[quote]The Pacers talked to the Utah Jazz about forward Paul Milsap prior to the draft. Expect them to make a phone call to the Jazz again. The 26-year-old Milsap, a Pacer killer in the past, averaged a career-high 17 points last season. The Pacers can make this deal happen because they

[Xiao Yao You]

Matt Harpring: my top free agent that will be worth the money, marc gasol. The offer would be 4yrs, 42 mil. He can be a good player on a good team.

Twitter

[Xiao Yao You]

[quote]Our team

[El Kabong]

Offer them Jefferson or Okur.
I don't see anything the Pacers would have to offer for Millsap unless it was Darren Collison or Roy Hibbert, and I don't see either of those guys being offered. My worst thought was they'd do Hansbrough and a 1st rounder, which would suck beyond all known suckage.

Jefferson you'd take what you could get since he's expendable. Same with Okur.

[Xiao Yao You]

The Jazz are shopping Al Jefferson and Paul Millsap, according to league executives.

The Jazz appear eager to build their frontcourt around the younger combination of Enes Kanter and Derrick Favors.

[Xiao Yao You]

I don't see anything the Pacers would have to offer for Millsap unless it was Darren Collison or Roy Hibbert, and I don't see either of those guys being offered.

They did get Hill from SA so they could possibly offer up Hill or Collison.


My worst thought was they'd do Hansbrough and a 1st rounder, which would suck beyond all known suckage.

If they trade him they better get more than that. He and his contract are too good.

[Xiao Yao You]

http://www.deseretnews.com/article/700202276/Utah-Jazz-Mehmet-Okur-on-hold-in-Turkey.html

[Xiao Yao You]

Former Jazz reserve center Kyrylo Fesenko plans to return to the United States in the hopes of signing with an NBA team once the lockout ends.
Fesenko, who played for Ukraine during EuroBasket 2011, will be an unrestricted free agent after the collective bargaining agreement is approved. He is living in his home country and has nearly recovered from an offseason knee injury.

Brian T. Smith

[UtahJazzFan88]

I wonder how much out of shape Fesenko is, doesn't strike me as someone who would be working hard as hell to get back into game shape.

[Xiao Yao You]

Well he is a free agent so that might have motivated him? He's a stiff. Better concentrate his efforts on somewhere other than the NBA.

[Xiao Yao You]

Derrick Williams: Was working out with Enes Kanter today .. Looks good Utah ! Y'all got a good player coming to you guys! Twitter

[Xiao Yao You]

Brian T. Smith: Kirilenko received more interest than expected. Some calls were obviously exploratory. But there was interest from many teams. Twitter

Why wouldn't many teams have interest?

[Xiao Yao You]

You are a free agent now. Do you stay in Russia or come back to the NBA? Kirilenko: Before Dec. 9th I will listen to offers from the NBA. I am happy in CSKA and it will be a tough decision. Utah Jazz is in my heart and is on the priority list. I will look at everything on the table. You know here in Russia my kids are in school, the team is great and I have been playing really well. It will be a difficult decision. Deseret News

The fact that he wants to be in Utah unlike most people has to be taken into consideration to.

[Xiao Yao You]

Hansen: How many more years do you want to play? Kirilenko: I would like to play three or four more years. I feel have enough juice left for that many more years at a high level. After three to four years I don't know if I will be able to play at my highest level. Deseret News

[magnax1]

I'd like AK back just because he's been with the franchise forever, but he's not worth much, and I'm sure someone will overpay for him. If they got him in the 2-4 million range... I guess that's fine, but he's always injured and really not a very good player in the first place.
Also, they need to free up some time for Jeremy Evans to play. They'll probably have 4 Bigs in front of him, so I don't know when he'll ever get a real chance.

[Xiao Yao You]

AK's not very good?

Does Evans deserve to play or is he just an spot energy guy like Price? Can always send Evans to the D-league to get him time.

[Xiao Yao You]

Jazz rookie center Enes Kanter is expected to arrive in Salt Lake City on Tuesday and be ready for the start of training camp Friday, The Salt Lake Tribune has learned.

Kanter was the No. 3 overall pick during the 2011 NBA Draft. The unsigned rookie big man will take a physical and go through medical tests before camp begins. He is in good health and no holdups are expected.
Brian T. Smith

[ElBronco]

I can't believe that they're shopping Milsap. He's been nothing but good for the Jazz organization. Unless somebody comes to them with some kind of godfather like offer. They should keep the guy and count thier blessings to have him. Who knows whether Kanter and Favors will pan out.

[Xiao Yao You]

Yeah, he's the last guy I'd be looking to trade. He's their best player in so many ways and it would be hard to find a deal worthy of him and his contract.

[magnax1]

AK's not very good?
Average at best. He's not even that great of a defender anymore. He'll get a block a game, a steal a game, and make a couple passes, but then he doesn't really do much else.


Does Evans deserve to play or is he just an spot energy guy like Price? Can always send Evans to the D-league to get him time.
Doesn't really matter if he deserves it. He needs it to grow. Playing against DLeague scrubs isn't really all that helpful,

[Xiao Yao You]

Average at best. He's not even that great of a defender anymore. He'll get a block a game, a steal a game, and make a couple passes, but then he doesn't really do much else.

Considering that he flys all over the court defensively I hate to think where they'll be without him. He's hardly an average player. Highly overpaid yes he was. Makes some bad decisions and can't shoot yes. An unselfish energy guy that makes plays are hard to come by, especially ones that actually want to be in Utah.


Doesn't really matter if he deserves it. He needs it to grow. Playing against DLeague scrubs isn't really all that helpful,

Why give him the time to grow if he's not anything more than a spot energy guy at best? Winning and competing don't matter anymore? The D-league can certainly be more helpful for a guy if that's the level of player he is than being thrown into a situation where he is in over his head.

[Xiao Yao You]

Brian T. Smith: Unless AK gives Jazz serious hometown discount, chances of Utah re-signing him are slim. Too much money, too many years, too much risk. Twitter

Brian T. Smith: Plus, it's not like Kirilenko isn't drawing interest from other teams. More than 10 contacted him when FA talks started last week. Twitter

[Xiao Yao You]

David Locke: Kwame Brown's agent says he is garnering a lot of interest and that is why the Jazz went big with the #3 pick and Enes Kanter Twitter

[Xiao Yao You]

Mike Wells: Kirilenko's agent, Marc Fleisher, said Pacers are one of about 15 teams interested in the free agent. Twitter

[Xiao Yao You]

Chris Sheridan: If there was a third team on LAL-NO talks I would think maybe it's Utah sending Al Jefferson to NO, with Pau going to Jazz. Pau>AJ, younger. Twitter

Poor Ty Corbin! Being put into a hole with Gasol! LOL! Sounds too good to be true. Make the Lakers take Raja. He and Kobe wanted each other last year. They deserve each other. Hornets probably wouldn't mind CJ either maybe Okur's expiring contract and Harris to replace Paul too? He's already replaced Kidd and Deron. Why not?

[Xiao Yao You]

Andrei Kirilenko suffered an injured shoulder in a Russian League game last week.

Same shoulder? Could make his price go down for bringing him back.

[CakeorDeath]

So wait, you're saying let's trade Jefferson, Bell, CJ, Okur, and Harris for Gasol?

No. One rumor had Jefferson going to the Hornets and Gasol to the Jazz. Would be all over that. The others I would look to trade for whatever they can get.


Wouldn't trade Jefferson for Gasol straight up. Gasol is 31 and with all of the time he's played in Europe over the summer he's got a lot of mileage on his legs. He was clearly spent by the time the playoffs started and was horrible in the Mavs series because of fatigue. Most Gasol apologists say that he was tired due to having to compensate for Bynum's injury.

Sounds like it had more to do with personal problems he was having at the time. Not like he would have to worry about it with the Jazz. They aren't going anywhere.


If he came to Utah he'd have to shoulder an even bigger load.

And as he showed on a couple good Memphis teams he's capable of doing that. No one else on their roster is.


His defense isn't markedly better than Al's

Other than he actually plays some.


he is five years older

And in his prime with two rings. World Championship. An proven unselfish winner not a statistical black hole.


Al for Gasol does not make us a better team.

Can't see how it wouldn't.


would rather trade Millsap

Trade their best player and one of the best contracts in the league instead of someone that hasn't proven he can be part of a winning team?


I would rather see us pick up a guy like Danny Granger, who fills a bigger need for the Jazz than Gasol.

Sure but Granger is supposedly untouchable while Gasol was just traded.

Gasol>AJ anyday

[Xiao Yao You]

Why is my post under Cake of Death's name?

[CakeorDeath]

Half a decade ago he proved he could (sort of) do that. Not sure I'd say the Grizz were good when he was the centerpiece; a perennial 8 seed that never won a single playoff game. Would be even harder to do that now given his age, wear, and tear.

He's better now. He was the only guy playing over 30 minutes a game on the Grizz. He carried them. Believe they won 50 games. They were pretty good.


7 footers are not in their prime at 31.

He is. He's been playing his best ball.


He's on his last big contract and will probably only have 2-3 years left once his current deal expires. Again, constant international play betrays his actual age.

Remains to be seen.


Was not a proven winner until he joined an absolutely loaded Laker team with the best player of his generation and the best coach of all time.

And that team would have won with Jefferson? No. He was a perfect fit. He doesn't need the ball all the time to be effective like Jefferson. He's unselfish. Can play high and low post. Can pass. Team player. All the things Jefferson isn't.


Strike while the iron is hot. I love 'sap but he has peaked. Has physical limitations that he can't change and that limits his ceiling.

Again remains to be seen. If he shows he can play the 3 as well this year it's a whole new ball game. I'm not convinced he's peaked. Put him next to a guy that complements him better and who knows. Jefferson and him were a bad fit.


Jefferson has the size we need at the four and is unguardable down low

For being unguardable he was less effective than Millsap.


get him to commit to some defensive basics and teach him to pass out of a double team and he could be a dominant player

Can he be taught these things? Hasn't learned them yet.


team him up with more size (Favors, Kanter).

You forgot Okur. LOL! Kanter doesn't sound like he's anywhere near ready.


Gasol never proved he could be part of a winning team until he was traded to a winning team with the winningest coach of all time and one of the winningest players in history to shoulder the load.

Sure he did. Jefferson hasn't carried a team like Gasol did in Memphis. He's had the chance to do so.


Granger's name is floating all over the rumor mill.

Might be. I read he and George are untouchable.


Only way the Lakers trade Gasol is if it brings them Paul or Howard.

And that was the rumor I was commenting on. Jefferson to Hornets. Gasol to the Jazz. Obviously Scola, Odom and Martin are all better than Jefferson so that never materialized.


Stern isn't letting Paul go to the Lakers and I doubt Orlando would take Al for Howard. They'd rather have Bynum.

Who says they want Bynum? Lakers might want that deal. i wouldn't. What has Bynum done?

[Xiao Yao You]

Why is it posting under another name?

[El Kabong]

Haha, that's pretty funny. Your secret identity revealed?

[Xiao Yao You]

Yeah guys like him are hard to come by. Better get something special for him. AJ is just another Boozer. Puts up numbers and gets paid.

[DMV2]

I want Kanter and Favors 30+ minutes each, so good bye to either Jefferson, Okur or Millsap. Would prefer Al or Okur.

A lot of teams are in need of centers: Boston, Orlando(when Howard leaves), Miami, Portland(Camby is old), etc...

Al's $14 mill and Okur's $11 mill is a lot to take on though.

[Xiao Yao You]

I want Kanter and Favors 30+ minutes each, so good bye to either Jefferson, Okur or Millsap. Would prefer Al or Okur.

A lot of teams are in need of centers: Boston, Orlando(when Howard leaves), Miami, Portland(Camby is old), etc...

Al's $14 mill and Okur's $11 mill is a lot to take on though.

Right now it sounds like Kanter's minutes should be coming in the D-league. I want Al and Okur gone because they are overpaid as are Harris and Raja. CJ also appears expendable now. After all the moves are made if Favors deserves 30 + minutes I'm all for it. Not at all for throwing away the season to give him or anyone else minutes though.

Okur is expiring and other teams were after Al when Jazz got him so they are tradable as is Harris. Raja would have to be thrown in on a deal because he appears to be through and has a horrible deal. CJ I'm sure they could deal too.

[Xiao Yao You]

David Locke: Talked with Al Jefferson on how is new athelticism should help his game will post soon. Amazing story on last work out in santa barbara Twitter

New athleticism? LMAO! Hopefully he'll be taking it elsewhere to display.

[Xiao Yao You]

Sources also told ESPN.com that the Pacers are making progress toward a two-year deal with free-agent forward David West in the $20 million range after West's sign-and-trade to the Boston Celtics got held up this week. It was not immediately known if the Celtics would try to salvage their West deal with the New Orleans Hornets. The Pacers, sources say, also have Carl Landry and Andrei Kirilenko alongside West at the top of their frontcourt wish list. ESPN.com

[Xiao Yao You]

David Locke: The Paul Millsap to Indiana for Danny Granger talk can end. Pacers sign Davis West to two year deal

[Xiao Yao You]

David Locke: Marc Gasol signs today with Memphis - he is the player I think of most when I watch Enes Kanter

A Gasol type player would certainly be welcome.

[CakeorDeath]

A Gasol type player would certainly be welcome.

Let's hope Locke's right. If Kanter becomes Marc Gasol I'd be ecstatic. Kanter seems to have far more range though, and therefore seems more comfortable in the 15-20 feet range than Gasol ever will, so I'm not sure how accurate the comparison is

[Xiao Yao You]

The Bucks are looking at Kyrylo Fesenko and Joel Przybilla, according to sources. Fesenko is an unrestricted free agent who has three years of NBA experience. Przybilla lives in Milwaukee and started his career with the team. HoopsWorld

The Grizzlies, sources say, were weighing the merits of calling up Greg Ostertag out of the D-League as a spot-minute addition to their tag team filling in for the injured Zach Randolph when the 38-year-old decided to end his comeback Jan. 19 because of unshakeable knee soreness. ESPN.com

[Xiao Yao You]

The Hawks plan to sign a center and it almost certainly will be a guy on a 10-day contract rather than a permanent addition. They

[Xiao Yao You]

The team has agreed to terms with former Missouri forward DeMarre Carroll, who was waived earlier this week by Denver.

The 6-foot-8, 212-pound Carroll is an interesting pick up for the Jazz, considering he is not an outside scoring threat and has only shot 40 percent throughout his three-year career with Memphis, Houston and Denver.

Carroll only appeared in four games with the Nuggets this season, averaging 2.7 points and 1.9 rebounds in 9.9 minutes.

He is expected to join the Jazz in time for practice Thursday morning.

Carroll spent the first two years of his college career at Vanderbilt before transferring to Missouri, which is coached by his uncle, Mike Anderson.

In 2009, Carroll carried Mizzou to an Elite Eight showing and was Big 12 Tournament MVP after leading the Tigers to their first conference crown in 16 years. He averaged 16.6 points, 7.2 rebounds and 2.2 assists as a senior.

The Jazz did not release terms of the Carroll's contract.

Besides the fact that this guy has done nothing after being a 1st round pick what need does he fill other than "insurance policy" as Rigby says? This is really the best you can do? Why not look at him on a 10 day contracts at least before committing to him? Why not a shooter? A young pg prospect? Another veteran for the locker room? They could have signed this guy before Denver did if they're so enamored by him. What did he do in Denver to finally get him on their radar?

[Xiao Yao You]

Ever since starting center Andrew Bogut fractured his left ankle against the Houston on Jan. 25, the Bucks have been exploring different avenues to secure another big man. Within the next week, they are expected to take a good, hard look at Kyrylo Fesenko, a 7-1, 290-pound center who played the last four seasons with the Utah Jazz. "We've had discussions about bringing him in and working him out,'' Bucks general manager John Hammond said Monday night after the Bucks-Miami Heat game at the Bradley Center.

Racine Journal-Times

[Xiao Yao You]

The Bucks are trying to set up a meeting with unrestricted free agent center Kyrylo Fesenko next week, possibly in Denver, where he has been living.

Racine Journal-Times

Fesenko, who played the last four seasons as backup for the Utah Jazz, tore the meniscus in his left knee while playing for the Ukraine in the Eurobasket Tournament in September. "He's fine now; he's ready to go," said Stu Lash, Fesenko's agent. Besides the Bucks, Chicago, Miami and Atlanta are among some of the other teams showing interest in Fesenko.

Racine Journal-Times

[Xiao Yao You]

http://basketball.realgm.com/article/219113/Euroleague_MVP_Race

[Xiao Yao You]

[quote]Not only was Jefferson unaware he

[Xiao Yao You]

Harris game time decision. Sprained MCL. I'd think the fact they are playing the Bobcats it might make sense to rest him. They should win that win regardless if who is on the floor. They better!

[Xiao Yao You]

Cops rushed in to break up a heated late night exchange between several members of the Indiana Pacers and a pack of angry clubgoers in Orlando early this morning ... and the whole thing was caught on tape. TMZ obtained footage ... showing 7'1" Kyrylo Fesenko confronting a group of people outside of Club 23 around 2:45 AM. Sources at the scene tell us ... the whole thing began when one of the clubgoers angrily accused Kyrylo of "bumping into him" ... and then unleashed a flurry of verbal attacks at the NBA star. TMZ.com

As Kyrylo tried to walk away from the situation ... the mob grew in numbers and the taunts became louder. That's when Kyrylo's teammate Danny Granger charged towards the clubgoers ... only to be restrained by some of his friends. Multiple bike cops peddled to the scene and diffused the situation ... with Granger and Kyrylo calmly walking away without further incident. TMZ.com

A rep for the Pacers tells TMZ ... "Our players were provoked into a verbal confrontation and ended up walking away from the confrontation. To make something more out of this than what it was is ludicrous." TMZ.com

[Xiao Yao You]

Emiliano Carchia: According to Turkish media, Mehmet Okur might return to Turkey and sign with Fenerbahce Ulker Twitter

Probably the best place for his failing body.