While I’m still trying to figure out how the Austin Toros ended up with the 15th overall pick in the upcoming D-League draft —- I don’t remember any lottery being televised during halftime of one of the WNBA’s playoff games (and I watched all of ’em!), Newsday’s Alan Hahn reports that along with the Knicks planning a future Development franchise in Harlem, there’s a chance a couple of NY rookies will make their pro debuts as part of the Association’s bush league.
Mike D’Antoni said the D-League was a possible destination for Danilo Gallinari, at the start of the season, if anything to get him extended minutes in game action to help him better prepare for his debut in the NBA lineup. The Knicks’ affiliate in Reno is coached by Jay Humphries, who was on D’Antoni’s staff in Phoenix and will run the D’Antoni system.Another potential D-Leaguer could be Patrick Ewing, Jr., though D’Antoni also mentioned the idea of sending Ewing, Jr. to Europe for the year. They would retain his rights until next training camp. Same goes for Dan Grunfeld.
D’Antoni isn’t against the idea of using the D-League. In fact, unlike Isiah Thomas, D’Antoni doesn’t like the idea of carrying 15 players throughout the season. He prefers to practice and work with smaller numbers. Less people sitting around.
I’m all set to order my Gallinari Reno Bighorns jersey, especially as the t-shirt shown atop this post is currently covered in ketchup stains.