Links to the Present: December 20, 2011

2011-12-20 Off By Colin McGowan

“Antawn Jamison has been many things during his 13-year NBA career. This year, he gets to be Mr. Everything for the Cleveland Cavaliers. That’s a lot to ask for a 35-year old forward coming off pinkie surgery. But it’s a role for which Jamison says he is well-prepared.” [Sam Amico]

“Though handed a rather unorthodox preseason schedule, the Cleveland Cavaliers will finish up their second of two exhibitions tonight when they play host to the Detroit Pistons. With 17 players in tow and the roster needing to be trimmed by two roughly 48 hours before their season tips off, tonight’s contest will undoubtedly be used to help Chris Grant and Byron Scott make any decisions they see fit.” [Scott Sargent]

“Mychel Thompson is making a name for himself in the Cavaliers’ training camp. Heading into today’s second, and last, preseason game against the Detroit Pistons in The Q, Thompson is one of just two undrafted rookies still on the roster. He is the only one to get any playing time in Friday’s 91-87 preseason victory at Detroit. Kenny Haynes did not play.” [Mary Schmitt Boyer]

Rick Noland has a piece on Samardo Samuels’s path to the NBA and what Byron Scott expects from him this season.

And for anyone wondering if the Cavs were going to use their cap space to go after Arron Afflalo, Denver just signed him to a 5-year, $43 million contract. I like Afflalo and everything, but I wouldn’t want to pay him an average of $9 mil per year over five seasons.

On the Twitters

“Thompson says that he and Kyrie are like “Batman and Robin.” when asked who was who, he smiled and decided they’re both Batman. #Cavs” [Scott Sargent]

“Tristan Thompson is big Maple Leafs fan — owns a Mats Sundin jersey — and knows of Johnny Bower. He was unaware Bower banner hangs in Q.” [PDCavsInsider]

“Casspi’s knee is OK, will play tonight, BScott hasn’t decided if he’ll start. Either way, he’s the starter once season begins.” [Jason Lloyd]

“BScott on Irving & Knight: ‘Kyrie is def a true PG. I think Brandon has the ability to be a true PG, but it’s something he has to learn.'” [Jason Lloyd]