This is the problem with every team in the NBA’s West

Good morning. Let’s basketball. Just a little, though. A little basketball.

THE TROUBLE WITH [EVERY WESTERN CONTENDER]: The Rockets were really damn good last season and look poised to be even better. They made the conference finals last year. The problem is that they are in the West, where there are no guarantees of survival at any stage.

THE TROUBLE WITH THE MAVERICKS: Tim Cato -- a Mavericks fan, mind you, argues that Dallas is stuck between contention and rebuilding.

CELEBRATE! One of the weirdest rituals in the NBA ... rookie photo shoot day!

COOL: I had completely forgotten that referee lockouts could happen, but it’s still good to see the NBA’s officials wrap up a new long-term deal with the league without drama.

NOTED: The Suns are spending lots of dough again.

OF COURSE THERE IS: There’s a rap song about Meyers Leonard.

YIKESVILLE: This is the Hawks’ Mike Scott confessing to drug possession, which apparently helps his little brother avoid charges. It’s just very yikes all around.

NEAT: Cool conversation with Sam Mitchell about leadership and coaching young players.

ZACH LAVINE IS A BLOWTORCH: A walking, jumping, dunking blowtorch.

Take care of yourself today. See you next time.