This story is a little deeper than just another "thug athlete with guns" incident:

Cleveland Cavaliers guard Delonte West was arrested Thursday after officers pulled him over for speeding on a motorcycle while carrying two loaded handguns and a loaded shotgun in a guitar case.

Prince George's County police spokeswoman Sgt. Michelle Reedy said Friday the Cleveland Cavaliers player was arrested about 10 p.m. Thursday.

Reedy said West was riding a Can-Am Spyder motorcycle north on the Capital Beltway in Upper Marlboro when he cut off an officer, who pulled him over.

Police said a handgun was found in his pocket, another in his pant leg and a shotgun in a guitar case strapped to his back.

Reedy said West "was very cooperative, there were no issues" during the incident.

The 26-year-old West, who lives in Brandywine, was charged with speeding and weapons counts. It is illegal to carry concealed weapons and to transport loaded guns in Maryland, according to police. Reedy said West was released on his own recognizance early Friday.

You could react with either indifference or disgust, and write it off as another offseason setback for a promising young man who has been corrupted by money, fame, or a slight lack thereof. However, a little sympathy is in order:

Last year, West left the Cavaliers' training camp to seek treatment for depression and a "mood disorder" he said he has battled his entire life. At the time, he said he was taking medication and attending therapy sessions. West said his mood problems date to his childhood.

West has said his mood swings seem to be most erratic when his life seems to be in order.

Now, I don't know about you, but when a young man has sought treatment before he has legal issues, I tend to come down on the side of a someone trying to get their life in order, rather than on the side of someone using mental issues to get out of being caught with guns. He needs more help, rather than condemnation and scorn. No question--he needs to be penalized and held accountable for having a crazy pile of lethal weapons. He needs those items to be taken away from him by a family member or someone who cares about his safety and well being. You don't excuse his conduct, but understanding it doesn't hurt a bit.

Kickin' it at my sports blog, sir...