Links To The Present: June 5, 2010

“Gilbert had a clear succession plan in place and quickly named assistant general manager Chris Grant as Ferry’s replacement. Grant and Gilbert will oversee the hiring of Brown’s replacement, a process Ferry didn’t think could start until his own status was resolved.” [Brian Windhorst on Danny Ferry’s Resignation]

“When Ferry took the job he pushed to have full personnel control in his contract, even walking away from the table at one point during negotiations. With another contract on the horizon and the uncertainty over LeBron James’ future with the team weighing on the franchise, it isn’t clear whether Gilbert was ready to cede as much control this time around.” [Brian Windhorst videocast on Ferry’s Resignation]

“Ferry didn’t say this. He was gracious and thankful to Gilbert for the chance to be a general manager. But something went wrong.  Ferry has made millions in his career as a player and executive, and he has five children. He really doesn’t need to compromise to keep a job. He is extremely confident in Chris Grant, his replacement.” [Terry Pluto on Ferry]

“Over the past 10 days it has been Grant doing the homework on some of the Cavs’ candidates to replace fired coach Mike Brown. Not because the change was anticipated but also because that is the sort of work Grant has been doing for the Cavs for several years now.” [Brian Windhorst on Cavs New GM Chris Grant]

“Also, very significantly, the Gilbert-owned gambling casino downtown could open as soon as next year, by some forecasts. The owner needs 20,562 fans pouring out of The Q on a regular basis and heading for his wagering emporium, either looking to celebrate or to forget their troubles.” [Bill Livingston on The Stakes]

“The righteous indignation is at a fever pitch. Only this is a lot like Shoe-Gate. It’s a mirage that’s completely beyond LeBron’s control. Both the “Jimmy Kimmel” bit and the “Nightline” interview were reruns that were taped and aired months ago. The “Nightline” interview took place on April 5, the day after Easter, when the Cavaliers looked to be buzzing toward the NBA Finals. The introductions to the spots were changed and infused with free-agent talk to make them seem up-to-date, but to use them as evidence that LeBron’s trying to outshine the Finals is to misplace the blame.” [Chris Broussard on The Circus]

“Nike has a lot at stake in this free agent conversation. But does that mean they’re participating in it? A spokesperson for the company would neither confirm, deny, nor comment.” [Henry Abbott on Nike’s Stake in FA2010]

I think Shoals needs to read Krolik’s interview with himself…

“Who says Cleveland can’t win a championship?  The long-suffering sports city — which can’t seem to win a trophy on a court or a field — captured one in a hotel ballroom Friday night when 14-year-old Anamika Veeramani took first prize at the 83rd Scripps National Spelling Bee.  “Go Cavs!” Anamika said, shortly after accepting the winner’s trophy, which also comes with more than $40,000 in cash and prizes.” [AP on Anamika Veeramani]