Links To The Present: March 3, 2011

“They did a good job. Alonzo did a good job of taking the challenge and coming out and understanding what we need to do on both ends of the floor. He had a pretty good game. Samardo, obviously, career high in points and rebounds. Now the trick is to see if we can duplicate that on Friday [in New York] and be consistent on both ends of the floor. Both those young guys played well tonight.” [Byron Scott via Mary Schmitt Boyer]

“As Samardo Samuels prepared to make his first NBA start on Wednesday, Cavaliers coach Byron Scott had seen enough of the undrafted rookie to declare he could play in this league for the next decade.” [Jason Lloyd]

“[Alonzo] Gee attributes a lot of his improvement to practicing outside of team-orchastrated activities, especially an increased focus on his jump shot and decision making skills.  Several times in the game against the Spurs, Gee passed up three-point attempts early in the shot clock to either facilitate Scott’s offense or create a shot attempt closer to the rim.” [Scott Sargent]

“Head coach, Byron Scott, announced today that Baron Davis will likely play for the first time in wine and gold when the Cavaliers take on the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden, this Friday night. Davis is averaging 12.8 points and 7 assists per game but also looks to bring valuable veteran leadership to one of the youngest teams in the league.” [Conrad Kaczmarek]

“At first, I was confused but this is going to be great for my career. Coach [Byron Scott] told me I was going to get some playing time and a chance to prove myself.” [Luke Harangody via Al Hamnik]

Mary Schmitt Boyer talks Baron Davis, J.J. at the 4, and Samardo Samuels’ ceiling.

On The Twitters

“Baron Davis says he’s only 70% healthy but will play Friday. Should just shut it down for the season if he’s in that bad of shape.” [realcavsfans]

“This weekend’s #Cavs/Hornets game will no longer be aired on ESPN. Fox Sports Ohio picked it up, will tip off at 6:30p.” [Scott Sargent]

“No Boobie Gibson for Friday. Will be shut down, without contact, for a few days. #Cavs” [Scott Sargent]