Jordan Won't Stump For Butler, Jamison
Monday, January 29, 2007; Page E07
BOSTON, Jan. 28 -- Wizards Coach Eddie Jordan was thrilled to see Gilbert Arenas voted into the Feb. 18 All-Star Game as a starter and he has made it clear that forwards Caron Butler and Antawn Jamison deserve strong consideration for being added as reserves. One thing Jordan won't do is contact other coaches and campaign for his players.
Denver's George Karl is among a group of coaches who do. Karl and his coaching staff have been calling Western Conference coaches trying to persuade them to vote for Allen Iverson, Carmelo Anthony and Marcus Camby as reserves.
TRACKING THE WIZARDS Andray Blatche will attend 'John School,' a day-long seminar on the ills of solicitation. The Wizards re-sign forward Andray Blatche to a multiyear deal. After a delay, the Wizards finalize a trade of guard Juan Carlos Navarro to Memphis for a draft pick. Wizards Insider Ivan Carter and Michael Lee with exclusive coverage and analysis on the Washington Wizards. NBA Basics |
"No, I don't do that," Jordan said. "If you ask me, I'll say they deserve it but I'm not going to get on a soapbox. If you play the right way and play hard you'll be recognized on your merits, not based on what I say."
Seven all-star reserves from each conference will be announced on Thursday.
Trade Appears Unlikely
With the Feb. 22 trade deadline fast approaching, rumors are swirling, but not around the Wizards.
President of Basketball Operations Ernie Grunfeld likes his team's makeup and is looking ahead to the return of Darius Songaila, who practiced on Wednesday for the first time since undergoing back surgery. Players also like how the team stacks up in the Eastern Conference.
"Our chemistry is great and we're winning games," Butler said. "Pretty soon we'll be getting Darius back and he's going to help us down the stretch."
