In N.Y., Marc Berman cites sources as saying that the Knicks have "ditched the United States Military Academy as their training-camp site" after a three-year run that was "marked with controversy last October." Training at West Point was the "brainchild" of former Knicks President Phil Jackson. Sources said that current President Steve Mills will "keep it simple and have the club train in late September at its Tarrytown facility" (N.Y. POST, 8/10). Meanwhile, in Philadelphia, Keith Pompey cites a source as saying that the Knicks will play the 76ers at MSG on Christmas Day. The NBA is "expected to announce the matchups for its annual Christmas showcase in the coming days." The move comes as the 76ers have a "lot of buzz surrounding them" (PHILLY.com, 8/10).
UP IN THE AIR: In Oklahoma City, Erik Horne notes the Thunder will play the Nets in Mexico City this upcoming season, and one "potential issue" for the Thunder is C Enes Kanter's status. Kanter "had his passport canceled by the Turkish government while traveling in Europe this summer." With the "assistance of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Kanter was able to get back to the United States, but hasn't been out of the country since May 21." The Thunder also will play in Toronto once, which "makes for two possible roadblocks for Kanter." The Thunder and NBA "will be working closely" on the matter (OKLAHOMAN, 8/10).
AIRING OF GRIEVANCES: In Boston, Dan Shaughnessy wrote, "Thumbs down to the Celtics for dumping longtime trainer Ed Lacerte and massage therapist Vladimir Shulman." Strength coach Bryan Doo "left on his own when it became evident that the Celtics are now all about 'sports science.'" Shaughnessy: "Is there not still room for institutional memory and the human touch?" (BOSTON GLOBE, 8/7).
