Times wires
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
MIAMI — Mavericks star Dirk Nowitzki tore a tendon in his left index finger during Game 1 of the NBA Finals and will wear a splint to protect it the rest of the series.
Nowitzki was hurt trying to swipe the ball from the Heat's Chris Bosh in the fourth quarter Tuesday night. The injury frightened him at first because he was unable to straighten the finger.
Nowitzki said an X-ray showed no broken bones. He is right-handed, so he uses his left hand mostly to guide his shots. He said he doesn't expect the injury or the bandage to be an issue.
Stern: Reaching deal will be 'a challenge'
MIAMI — It will be "a challenge" to reach a deal for a new collective bargaining agreement before the current one expires at the end of the month, commissioner David Stern said.
The league is trying to do that, though, scheduling a negotiating session with representatives from the players association today to precede two meetings set up for next week, he said.
Owners are seeking major financial changes to the deal that expires June 30. Without an agreement, the owners could lock out the players.
Magic still Howard's first choice: Center Dwight Howard indicated Monday that his strong preference is to remain with the Magic rather than test free agency. His contract runs through the 2012-13 season, but he can terminate the deal one year early and become a free agent in 2012.
Lakers: New coach Mike Brown made it clear during his introduction as Phil Jackson's successor that Kobe Bryant's role as team leader won't change. "This is still his team," said Brown, 41.
Rockets: Hall of Famer Kevin McHale agreed to become coach.