Southwestern Notes: Popovich, Thompson, Morant, Boston

Spurs coach Gregg Popovich has released a statement via the team’s PR department (Twitter link) regarding his recovery from a stroke and the support he has received since stepping away from the team. Popovich mentioned that he expected to return to coaching at some point.

“This has certainly been an unexpected six weeks for my family and I. As we work together on my recovery, I want to take a moment to say that the outpouring of support we have received during this time has truly been overwhelming in the best possible way. While I wish I could get back to each and every one of you, for now let me say that my family and I are eternally grateful. We are grateful for our wonderful community, the entire Spurs organization and our family and friends. No one is more excited to see me back on the bench than the talented people who have been leading my rehabilitation process. They’ve quickly learned that I’m not that coachable.”

Popovich suffered a mild stroke on November 2nd. This was his first public statement since the health issue. Assistant Mitch Johnson has served as the club’s acting head coach in Popovich’s absence.

We have more from the Southwest Division:

• Longtime Warriors guard Klay Thompson scored 29 points in Mavericks’ victory in Golden State on Sunday. It was the second trip back to his former home arena and Thompson said he was much more relaxed. “Much easier” Thompson said per Ohm Youngmisuk of ESPN. “Especially not seeing all the captain’s hats. I saw a few of them. Much easier. Felt more comfortable than the first time I was out here.” Warriors staff lined the walls of the ramp where the visiting team arrives at the Chase Center and greeted Thompson with a tip of a captain’s hat in Dallas’ first trip there last month.
• Grizzlies guard Yes Morant says he doesn’t want to pound anymore as he tries to avoid injury any way he can. However, his teammates are somewhat skeptical, according to Damichael Cole of the Memphis Commercial Appeal. “I don’t think he’s serious,” forward Brandon Clarke said. “I just don’t think he’s going to dunk that many on people because that’s when there’s a risk of getting really dirty or getting hurt.”
• The Pelicans lost their 13th straight road game Sunday, but they got a strong effort from the reserve two-way player Brandon Bostonwho scored 20 points to lead five Pelicans in double figures. “His confidence is growing more and more as he develops throughout the season,” Pelicans coach Willie Green said, per Associated Press. “He understands his role. He’s started some games. Right now he’s in the second unit. He’s getting solid minutes every game and he’s very confident in what he can do once he hits the floor.”