Prokhorov's notes (ESPN LINK)

[indeedproceed]

This guy is the real 'most interesting man in the world'. He might also be a Russian spy, who knows. In any case, he says interesting things.

Chris Broussard, ESPN:

"The Nets were the first of six teams to meet with James last week, and after what was, by most accounts, an impressive presentation, [Mikhail] Prokhorov made these observations about James' decision-making process: On the conference call, he categorized the options he believes James has before him: The 'hometown angle' of remaining with the Cleveland Cavaliers. The choice to play with Wade and Bosh in Miami, where James would have a 'very high chance to win two or three titles' but where he could also 'diminish the LeBron brand.' Joining the Chicago Bulls, Los Angeles Clippers or New York Knicks. These options, according to Prokhorov, are similar from a basketball standpoint and he believes none of the three clubs have a clear-cut strategy for winning championships.

Becoming a member of the Nets, who would give James the best opportunity to build a dynasty, become a champion and emerge as a global icon. To assure James of winning, Prokhorov said the Nets would pursue a trade for Chris Paul(notes).  He admits it could 'take a year for the young roster to grow' but that after adding the right pieces around James, the Nets could win the NBA title two years from now. Prokhorov also believes James would benefit greatly on a global scale because of the synergy he'd have with Prokhorov and Nets minority owner Jay-Z, and that his brand would experience global expansion from Day 1. Prokhorov was very optimistic about the Nets' chances of landing James and admitted to being intrigued by the choice the 25-year-old superstar would make. He said he has great respect for James' inner circle, which is led by business manager Maverick Carter, and he understands the challenge it faces in making such a monumental decision.

While discussion of James accounted for most of the conference call, Prokhorov also talked about Wade and Bosh, both of whom are represented by agent Henry Thomas. Prokhorov said he was very impressed with Thomas, but he also admitted it was a 'dilemma to try and convince him to think on a global scale.' He believes Thomas had rarely, if ever, been confronted with a globally-based package, 'especially under such an intense spotlight.' Finally, regarding Wade and Bosh, Prokhorov told his inner circle he has no doubt that both will sign with Miami."

Via Ball Don't Lie

[Andy Jick]

He doesn't drink beer often, but when he does he drinks dos equis...

[StartOrien]

My, oh my. Is it me, or are the Nets just doing everything right?

[FrDrake]

seriously, this guy is way smarter than three quarters of the GMs and owners in the NBA. 

Imagine if NJ flips their young pieces (i.e. Terrance Williams, Devin Harris, draft picks) to New Orleans and takes on Peja's terrible contract in order to get Paul.   You could have a lineup like so:

Paul
Courtney Lee
Lebron
David Lee (FA signing) / Favors
Lopez

[Jon]

Let's not count our chickens yet.  He talks a good talk, but he may strike out in free agency and New Orleans may keep Paul. 

[indeedproceed]

Let's not count our chickens yet.  He talks a good talk, but he may strike out in free agency and New Orleans may keep Paul.  

He'll still be cooler than Billie Dee Williams sittin on an iceberg.