The Spurs Thursday night did not play F Tim Duncan or G Manu Ginobili against the Rockets in order to rest them after they played the night before, but ESPN's Tony Kornheiser said, "This is the fourth game (of the season). Isn't this a little much?" ("PTI," ESPN, 11/6). TNT’s Reggie Miller said, “Everyone at home scratching their heads saying, ‘Wait a minute, we’re only three, four, five games into the season. Why is he doing this now?’ There is a vision and plan with this team" ("Spurs-Rockets," TNT, 11/6). ESPN's George Karl said of Spurs coach Gregg Popovich, "I respect what he did, but I also have problems. I love the fans and I think the fans might be disappointed.” ESPN’s Chauncey Billups: “I’m torn as well. As the aging veteran that I was the last few years, I appreciate the rest. But as a fan, I want to see Tim Duncan and Manu Ginobili play" ("NBA Tonight," ESPN2, 11/6).
BOLT OF EXCITEMENT: In San Diego, Michael Gehlken reports only a "limited number of club seats are unsold" for the Chargers' next two home games, meaning the team will not have any game "blacked out this year." This will be the first time since '09 the franchise will go "without a regular-season blackout." The Chargers the past four seasons "accounted for 10 of the 59 blackouts around the league." Coming off their first playoff berth since '09, the Chargers "made strides this year in the box office" (SAN DIEGO UNION-TRIBUNE, 11/7).
APPROVAL RATING: In St. Louis, Bernie Miklasz writes in the Rams' "quest for a new football stadium, one of the key items on the list of things to do has nothing to do with constructing a facility." The club needs to find a way to make Rams Owner Stan Kroenke "more likable." Nothing suggests that the "aloof Kroenke wants to increase his popularity here, so he doesn't profile as a willing candidate for an image makeover." Kroenke "isn't all bad; there's actually a lot to like about him," including the fact he "isn't a meddling owner." Miklasz: "I think part of Kroenke's problem is that he's painfully aware of his unpopularity, and it understandably makes him uncomfortable" (ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH, 11/7).
LIGHTNING IN A BOTTLE: NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman on Thursday said Lightning Owner Jeff Vinik has been “extraordinarily proactive” in trying to land a future All-Star Game. Bettman said, “Maybe when some of the construction around the area (Channelside area) is done, it’ll make for an even more compelling event and gathering of people. We’re keeping an eye on it.” Bettman added he and Vinik talked “theoretically” about an outdoor game (TAMPABAY.com, 11/6).
