California Sports Journal

“Their roles are ever-changing,” Montgomery said. “Now somebody’s going to have to step up and provide some leadership.”
After Robinson’s trade, Dale Davis, 35, became the longest-tenured player on the team (14th season).
Montgomery said the Warriors’ young frontcourt might see increased playing time in the second half of the season. “Management is going to suggest Andris (Biedrins) and Zarko (Cabarkapa),” he said. “Just to enter the fray and see what they can do in certain situations – I think that’s fair.”
Biedrins played just 21 minutes in four games in the first half of the season and at 18 is the youngest player in the NBA. Cabarkapa, who had played 13 games with the Warriors (three with Phoenix) going into last night, is averaging 4.5 points, 2.4 rebounds and 9.1 minutes per game.

Childress Effect?

Montgomery said that rookie Atlanta guard Josh Childress’ decision to leave school early did not influence his choice to coach in the NBA. Childress left Stanford after his junior season and was selected 6th overall in last year’s draft by the Hawks.
“I thought there was a lot of talk,” said Montgomery, who coached Childress at Stanford. “All the guys he went to school with wanted to go to the pros.”

New Rims Needed

Forward Jason Richardson started opposite Josh Smith, the winner of Saturday’s All-Star dunk contest in Denver. Richardson won the contest in 2003 and did not compete in this year’s event. Richardson threw the first blow in last night’s duel with a breakaway 360 degree one-handed jam midway through the first quarter.

BRIEFLY: Forward Troy Murphy was activated from the injured list prior to last night’s game. Murphy suffered a hairline fracture to his left thumb Jan. 28 against Seattle and missed 10 games.