He was everything Damon Stoudamire wasn't. Which, except for perimeter shooting, is quite a compliment in my book.
Andre turned me around. I didn't believe he would help this team. Sure, he still has tunnel vision from time to time but he had a lot of heart and composure which more than made up for that. I hope he does well.
I really did grow to enjoy Andre and I for one will miss, the idea, of what Andre was. (Not the reality of what Andre really is) *Andre was tough and hard nosed *Andre would fight for every offensive possesion often times grabbing a big offensive board when the team needed it. *His ability to pump fake a guy into the air and draw a foul, when he had no real chance to score a basket. *Those times he'd pick the pockets of opposing players at or near half court that led to quick "surprise" baskets and game changing momentum. *The fact that he gave up his league "iron man" streak, to make a point to a rookie who had gotten away with a push on him, solely because that's what old school ballers would do. *His interviews with Barrett after huge road wins, showing no emotion, and looking as if he'd rather be anywhere else but in front of the camera. What I won't miss however is his maddening ability to make a key turnover late in the game, even though he rarely would turn the ball over the first 46 minutes of it. His inability to open up the court for Lamarcus to post up down low because he couldn't hit an open 18 footer to save his life. His unbelievably terrible percentage on technical free throws. I'm not sure anyone keeps that stat but he had to be well below his regular FT%. ...And last, the fact that for as good as he's been throughout his career, and as many playoff series he's participated in, he's never been able to lead his team "over the hump" and on to the second round. I think it's entirely possible to be a really really good NBA player, a fabulous proffesional, and someone who holds yourself with great dignity and class, but a crappy winner. To me, that's what Andre is. Good luck in Denver Andre, or at least until you play us!
I will be interested to see where he ends up next season. We'll know in a few days if Denver renews his contract. If they do how well does he play at the backup PG? He will probably be the best backup in the league if he can accept that role. Well I just looked at Denver's cap and they would have baotloads of cap room, so I'm fairly certain that'll mean Miller gets released. If Denver releases him does he sign on for Miami or LA? I could actually picture him being a great fit in LA but it would be very weird seeing him and Blake playing against us for the Lakers in the Rose Garden.
Andre is a pro and I appreciate that. I think we'll miss his calmness and his ability to post up other PG's. However, I'm not going to miss his outside shot!
Thanks for everything Miller, it's been a fun ride. I still wish we kept you over Felton, but whatever. I hope the fans give this man a huge applause when Denver comes rolling into town.
He'd never see the ball with James and Wade being the primary ball-handlers. Unless the idea is to have Wade and James play off the ball, which would be hilarious, IMO. Miami needs a PG who can play off the ball, is a good outside shooter, and can play defense. I actually hope Miller does end up in Miami for Chalmers, because it would make them worse.
I'm going to miss Miller. He could set up bigs and play like a real point guard. His Dallas game where he put up 50+ was amazing and will be one of my favorite Blazers moments. I also liked the guy because he would let it be known that we should pound the ball into Aldridge/Oden instead of letting Roy run his iso offense all the time.
You can't be serious. Andre Miller added tremendous value to the team. Our exits in the playoffs were not his fault. In fact, Miller was probably the guy who carried us most last year, along with Aldridge.