Many CFLers suspect the primary reason for the decreases in scoring and entertainment this season is the league’s decision to use new footballs.
Veterans such as Damon Allen are adamant that the new balls are heavier and more difficult to handle.
Well, NBA players are griping in similar fashion about their league’s decision to use new basketballs in the coming season — and I can’t help but wonder if the NBA is asking for trouble. Some feel the new basketballs are too sticky and tougher to pass and shoot — and two-time MVP Steve Nash is among the most vociferous.
“It’s almost like you have to re-learn to make your plays,” the B.C. native told reporters in Phoenix, where he plays for the Suns. “I don’t understand the need for this.”
“It sucks,” was how Nash’s teammate, Raja Bell, put it. “This isn’t even a cousin of the ball we played with.”
Star centres Shaquille O’Neal and Kevin Garnett also abhor the new balls, and Dirk Nowitzki became so frustrated that he kicked one to the rafters in practice this week. Then he was fined $2,500 US by Dallas coach Avery Johnson for “conduct unbecoming to the team.”
• Mavericks owner Mark Cuban, incidentally, is putting the finishing touches on a TV show that will feature former NBA star/flake Dennis Rodman … Heat coach Pat Riley has been fining some of his stars, too, because they arrived at camp with more than the amount of body fat he prescribed for them in off-season letters …
Raptors coach Sam Mitchell is starting his camp with a more personable approach, but one of his players suggests his insecurity is transparent, telling me: “He wasn’t given a contract extension, and I think he thinks he’ll be fired quickly unless we have an amazing start.”
• In baseball, don’t be surprised if Seattle bolsters its pitching staff by acquiring San Francisco ace Jason Schmidt as a free agent. The Mariners also will take a stab at reacquiring veteran Jamie Moyer … While Barry Bonds is recovering from elbow surgery, the Giants let him know he’s welcome back if he takes a pay cut. Won’t happen.
Look for him to be a DH in the AL next year … The father of Minnesota ace Johan Santana is a middle infielder for a semi-pro team in Venezuela and bats about .300. Jesus Santana is 55.
• And for new details about the bidding for Ottawa’s CFL franchise, the so-called resignation of Don Matthews and more, please check my
