And the opposing team, the Los Angeles Lakers, will be on Collins' side as well, with several people within the organization expressing support for Collins.
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“When I see him, I see him as a great defender, a guy that protects the paint and finishes around the rim. That’s all I see when I’m out there,” said Lakers guard Kendall Marshall, according to the LA Daily News. “I think it’s the advancements we’ve made as people and will continue to make advancements. It’s just another step in the right direction.”
Lakers coach Mike D'Antoni made a similar statement, admitting that he looks forward to a day when the only focus is basketball, something he will see as a sign of progress.
“I hope one day if a player can play, he can play,” D’Antoni said. “If he can’t, he can’t. That’s all what we should be talking about. I know why we don’t. But eventually, that’s all that will matter. That’ll be a good thing.”
Lakers development coach Mark Madsen, a former teammate of Collins' at Stanford, said Collins put himself in position to make this happen.
“I think Jason is judged on his basketball abilities,” Madsen said. “I think he realizes that and he’s kept his abilities at the highest level. I think Brooklyn realizes that and they’ll probably get him at a bargain price. New Jersey will get a skilled leader, a skilled defender at a bargain price. I think it’s a win-win for everyone.”
