Yahoo Sports reports:
The Cleveland Cavaliers’ Delonte West skipped a second consecutive training camp practice Tuesday night and the front office is unsure when the troubled shooting guard will return to the team, sources told Yahoo! Sports.
West, who has a mood disorder, had been expected to be an important part of LeBron James(notes) and Shaquille O’Neal’s(notes) supporting cast this season. The Cavaliers could punish West with a fine or suspension, but that doesn’t solve the bigger issue for a franchise under immense pressure to deliver a title. Truth be told, the Cavs can no longer count on him.
The Cavaliers had considered the possibility of trading West, sources said, but his recent instability makes that an improbable scenario.
After an arrest on a weapons charge two weeks ago in Maryland, West was already facing possible legal action and a certain league suspension. West had three loaded and concealed guns on a motorcycle jaunt across a suburban Washington, D.C., highway. Last season, West left the team for several weeks to get treatment for his lifelong battle with mood disorders.
Beyond the fact that he’s in his Cleveland apartment, one associate said, the reason for West’s absence is still a source of speculation for Cavs general manager Danny Ferry and coach Mike Brown. West attended the Cavs’ media day availability Monday but was an unexcused no-show for both of Tuesday’s practices at the team’s facility in suburban Cleveland.
Ferry didn’t immediately respond to a text message.
“On a personal note, you always hope he’s doing well,” Brown told reporters Tuesday morning. “But I have to continue looking forward and coaching this team.”
Ferry has gone to great lengths to help West battle his demons, but this is a vital season for the Cavaliers. With the investment in Shaq, and James’ pending free agency next summer, Cleveland can ill-afford to let the drama surrounding West get in the team’s way.
{ 9 comments… read them below or add one }
Delonte, please stick with the team this year. I know you’ve got troubles but your place on the team is invaluable. With you, Boobie and Mo on the outside, Shaq, Anderson and Mo on the inside, we can’t lose this year. Please don’t let the legal stuff get in the way, nor your other issues. LeBron and the rest of the team need you. Take whatever fines and short term suspensions in stride and get back to the team. Go to practce and start supporting your mental health with your physical health. I love you, DWest13!! You are in my prayers. Peace~
that should be Shaq, Andy and Z on the inside. you know LeBron be every-damn-where… ;o)
I love you Delonte. You are in my thoughts! Get well soon buddy so we can win a championship
We can’t do it without you!
Delonte, be strong son. I am a 58year old woman with BPD and it’s rough. Thank God you were able to get help while you are young. I wasn’t diagnosed until my 50′s. Life’s a b*#!h. Take your meds and talk to a counselor you can trust. That makes all the difference in the world. I have been praying for you since your illness became public last year. You are my favorite player because I know how hard the struggle is. One day I may even get a shirt w/your number. Remember you are a hero not only for b’ball, but for those of us w/BPD. Love you Lots!
I know you are doing the best you can with everything. There are so many more challenges you face than your teammates. Take time for yourself and when you are ready to return come back and dominate the East with Bron and Shaq. They need you buddy! Your fans want to see you shine again. Will be picking up your jersey this season – can’t wait to see you back on the court.
Just a message of support, hoping that you can overcome your challenges and have a great season. Check out my blog at http://www.cleveland-psychiatrist.com/blog.
Delonte, It is what it is. that is what got me to realize that I have a mental disability and to focus on recovery daily. I totally understand that it is not just a matter of getting straight, even with meds. Meds is only about 50% of the program. I went through a lot of therapy and finally found a solution that has been working for me. Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. Check out the treatment plan developed by Marsha M Linehan. It takes daily diligence and medication. I have had the first truly peaceful and happy year in all of my 56 years. I will continue to use my new skills and follow a program of recovery for the rest of my life. It is a lot easier than the alternative.
It is unfortunate that society still attaches a stigma to mental disorders and does not see that it is a medical condition that can be treated.
My heart goes out to you and you are on my list to pray for you every day.
We love you in Cleveland PRAY and stay focsused. We need you for that championship
Delonte, you are in the right place, at the right time. I believe Danny Ferry not only has put together a talented team, but also a team of the most respectable and honorable men you will ever come across in pro sports.
You are going to start tomorrow night, because right then, at that moment, is the place your heart and soul need to be.
Because basketball is played from your heart and soul.
Everything else will take care of itself.