Eastern Notes: 76ers, KG, Knicks, Pacers

The 76ers are wise to try and emulate the Spurs, writes Keith Pompey of the Philadelphia Inquirer.  Like the Spurs, the Sixers are putting emphasis on continuity, as evidenced by their commitment to reigning Rookie of the Year Michael Carter-Williams amidst trade speculation.  Of course, they also have a Gregg Popovich disciple in coach Brett Brown.  Here’s tonight’s look at the Eastern Conference..

• Despite the loss of Paul Pierce, Chris Broussard of ESPN.com (on Twitter) hears that Kevin Garnett likes the direction of the Nets and is “excited” about joining them for the upcoming season.  That would indicate that Garnett, who is under contract for $12MM this season, won’t be retiring.  That jibes with a report from Tim Bontemps of the New York Post earlier today.
• Knicks president Phil Jackson indicated to reporters today that he won’t be spending much more this summer after re-signing Carmelo Anthony, writes Al Iannazzone of Newsday.
• Despite all of his idiosyncrasies, Paul George believes the Pacers will be a stronger title contender with Lance Stephenson back in the fold, writes Michael Marot of The Associated Press.  “It’s all on Lance’s plate,” George said. “I didn’t have to deal with this because I was a restricted free agent. It’s really up to Lance, but I will say I do want him to come back.”