LAS VEGAS — Adam Silver’s default setting is cautious. Unlike his predecessor, the NBA commissioner prefers pleasantries, equivocation and deliberate investigations to zingers, ultimatums and snap judgments. With the notable exception of the Donald Sterling saga, which elicited true contempt, there haven’t been many instances in which Silver broke from his meticulous and subdued public demeanor. He rarely uses his pulpit to forcefully campaign for pet issues or sweeping changes.
Two summers ago, though, Silver was blunt in his assessment on Kevin Durant’s decision to join the 73-win Warriors, a move that ran directly counter to his long-stated preference for competitive balance.