NBA

Payton: NBA will return to Seattle in 2011
Citing his inside league connections, Gary Payton predicted that newly franchise-less Seattle would have an NBA team by 2011. He also said he doesn’t plan to let his former franchise, now known as the Oklahoma City Thunder, retire his jersey given his, you know, complete lack of any connection to the city or the new team name. So anyone who was planning to purchase that Gary Payton “throwback” Thunder jersey may want to rethink things. (Seattle Post-Intelligencer)

Dalembert continues feud with Canadian coach
Samuel Dalembert reiterated his stance that he will not play for the Canadian national team so long as Leo Rautins is running the show. The two had a serious falling out during an Olympic qualifying tournament in Athens this summer that led to Dalembert being removed from the team. You know, if they don’t work this out that Canadian national team might really struggle. (The Globe and Mail)

NFL

Seau doesn’t rule out NFL return
Junior Seau has not ruled out a return to the NFL, either late this year or possible even next season. There are a couple of caveats. He’ll only return to play for the Patriots, and if the surfing conditions are particularly good it may be difficult to lure him away from San Diego again. (Providence Journal)

Perry headed to bench?
Coming off a paltry 11 carries for 14 yards in Sunday’s loss against the Jets, coach Marvin Lewis acknowledged the possibility that Perry could be headed to the bench in favor of Kenny Watson or Cedric Benson. You know … this could be just the change to turn things around. (Dayton Daily News)

MLB

Giants in market for Uggla?
The Giants are expected to make a push for Marlins’ second baseman Dan Uggla in an attempt to inject some power into their lineup. Paul Konerko and Derrek Lee are also players they could make a play for, although both have full no-trade clauses. A young pitcher like Jonathan Sanchez or Matt Cain would likely have to be part of any deal, although Tim Lincecum probably isn’t going anywhere. (Chicago Tribune)

Beckett: I’m fine
Josh Beckett maintains there is nothing wrong with his health after the usually top-notch playoff performer has let up 14 runs during his past nine innings pitched. Of course, if there’s nothing wrong it begs the questions … why are you pitching so badly? (Providence Journal)

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