— In defense of David Lee (who I’ve become very down on bringing back next year), I read this tantalizing bit:

As we know, the major decision from an organizational standpoint is to make a choice on David Lee. To imagine a Lebron James or Dwyane Wade in a pick and roll situation with Lee is pretty crazy to think about, especially if the perimeter is surrounded by shooters.

It would be quite remarkable offensively, to have the 7 seconds or less offense run through Lee, but with superstar talent.  Lee is one of the best passing, decision-making big men on offense.  That said, if Lee is back, it would be absolutely essential to have a true defensive center (who preferably could stroke it from 18 feet out) to counter Lee’s abysmal defense.  Just having Lee play the PF spot defensively would be an improvement.

— Nice read on Danilo Gallinari. There’s been some serious concern about his drop off in play as he’s hit the proverbial rookie wall.  But, comparisons to Dirk’s early development makes one keep it all in perspective.  Yes, Danilo achieving Dirk-like dominating ability is a very best case scenario, but we still have to remember that Danilo is still getting acclimated to the NBA style, still getting used to life in America, and still has a lot of physical maturing to do.  Danilo has the grit to fight through these early challenges and become a special player.

— Toney Douglas is finally back in the picture.  Nice to see him step up and get a shot.  He certainly could improve his court vision, but the only way that’s going to happen is if he gets playtime which will improve his feel for the timing and spacing of real game action.  There’s no reason, TD can’t be as good as Michael Westbrook really.  My hope is that he figures it out the way Chauncy Billups finally figured it out.  At least for now, he shows the required effort, heart, and defense that we want to see.