NBA’s Covid worries create waves for Phoenix
THE NBA’s rampant Covid situation has complicated South East Melbourne Phoenix’s search for a replacement for sacked import Devin Thomas.
Phoenix this week tore up the Pennsylvania native’s contract after several breaches of its conditions.
Amid soaring cases of Covid-19, NBA clubs have used a record number of players this season as a revolving door of stars find themselves in “health and safety protocols’’.
The scramble to cover losses has gifted NBA opportunities to players who might have normally been on the Phoenix’s radar. Whenever Phoenix has an open roster spot, Australian Boomer Dante Exum, who is a part-owner of the club, is high on the list. But, with the 26-year-old playing well in Barcelona, Phoenix boss Tommy Greer said it would take a minor miracle to secure the athletic guard.
“In the current environment, the NBA’s calling up absolutely everyone,” Greer said.
“We would never say no to Dante and I would find a way to make it work but, until he puts his hand up, we’ll continue our search.”
Greer said Thomas “wasn’t the right fit” for the playing group. “The bar is high. We’re looking for a good culture fit, a guy who’s going to come in and fit in with the group,” he said.
“We will consider young local options and imports.”
One former Phoenix player who has benefited from increased opportunities is point guard Keifer Sykes, who has signed a deal with the Indiana Pacers and made his NBA debut on Thursday.
Sykes, who grew up on the mean streets of Chicago, wowed NBL fans last season with his high-energy play and Greer said the Phoenix wore his success as a badge of honour.