It's been talked about a lot, but I just don't see this being a distraction for the players. If it was KP, or an assistant coach, maybe. But the assistant GM, just thinking they are going to let it get to them all that much.
Hard to say, depends on the reason. If it was without good cause, I'd be concerned as an employee. Allen firing Adleman is why Clyde and company bolted.
Does Tom Penns firing have any effect on Roy having a long term contract in place here? Nope. I doubt he cares.
No offense to Tom Penn, but once they play another game no one is going to give a shit. Slow week on the Portland NBA beat. Next week we won't remember tom whats his name.
Roy is smart . . . I don't exactly what he is feeling (probably nothing), but even if he was, you don't come out and talk shit about your employer. It is just common sense. There is a pecking order that needs to be respected.
Roy, when asked about Penn's firing: "Who gives a crap? He doesn't play and he doesn't coach. I've never even had a conversation with the guy. How anyone could think an accountant or whatever he is losing his job could have any impact on how we prepare for the playoffs is nuts. I don't have any idea why he got fired. You're the reporter, you figure it out."
I think Roy's response was just about perfect - what I would have written for him if I was his PR flack. 1) say something nice - but not too nice - about the deceased. 2) disclaim any knowledge of the killing 3) Show polite interest in the crime, but only because you are being asked about it 4) stress that you are focused on basketball, basketball, basketball barfo