Bobcats? center Jamal Sampson is being accused of assault and battery in a lawsuit filed last month.

His former roommate and friend, Christian Straughter is claiming that Sampson kicked him in the head, causing him to suffer a concussion.  Than in an attempt to keep Straughter quiet, Sampson allegedly made several threats to the man described as a foot shorter and 100 pounds lighter than his alleged attacker.

Sampson couldn't be reached for comment Tuesday. His agent, Jerome Stanley, called the lawsuit "a classic shakedown by a jealous former friend."

The conflict was apparently started over $400 in unpaid rent and bills.

Bobcats team owner Bob Johnson is keeping a close watch as the situation unfolds.  Asked if he'd cut a player or pay off a guaranteed contract to protect the team's reputation, Johnson said, "There's no individual player above the brand."