Links to the Present: January 4, 2011

“[Thompson]’s an exceptional player. The thing I like about him is the energy he brings on both ends of the floor. He learns. If you tell him something once, he picks it up quickly. He wants to get better. He wants to be a great player. That’s a sign of success.” [Antawn Jamison on TT]

“Omri Casspi… made 2 of 3 shots for 5 points in 18:42 on Tuesday. He had 2 assists, 1 rebound, 1 steal and 4 turnovers. Coach Byron Scott remains steadfast in his support, even leaving Casspi in the game after he picked up two quick fouls in the first quarter and his man, Corey Maggette, scored 12 points. Scott insists Casspi’s starting spot is not in jeopardy, but Alonzo Gee played twice as much in the second half. It’s definitely something to keep an eye on.” [Tom Reed]

“I think [the Cavs’ players] are enjoying playing with one another, which is great. Chemistry is so important — and camaraderie. I’ve always said, ‘You give me a team with good talent and great chemistry and camaraderie and we’ll win.’ We have a team here with that great chemistry and camaraderie that we’re starting to develop. It’s just a matter of these guys playing more basketball together as this season goes along.” [Byron Scott via Mary Schmitt Boyer]

Here’s a video of Kyrie Irving’s chasedown block during the third quarter of last night’s game via the WFNY Tumblr.