Mike Miller: Time To Give Credit Where Credit Is Due
By Mathew Huff
Mike Miller got some rare playing time, thanks to the team being short handed, and was fairly productive with his minutes
Mike Miller is the veteran “big brother,” of this team. Not to sound too cliche here, but he has “been there and done that.” It is easy to see why the Nuggets keep him around, but at the same time, it is puzzling that Denver doesn’t utilize him at all most of the time. As of right now, Miller may as well be an extra coach, but last night, he actually got some time.
The Nuggets were short-handed last night. They were without their 2 best defensive players in Gary Harris and Wilson Chandler. They also were missing Gallinari who was nursing an ankle injury. As a result, many of the young players got some much needed playing experience.
In the 2nd half, the momentum turned against the young Nuggets. After only being down 1, the Nuggets gave up a 15-0 run that they could not overcome in the end. However, a certain veteran halted the run to spark a run for Denver. That would be Mike Miller.
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This ignited a 12-2 run to make the game still a bit competitive. Now, sure this was his only made shot in the small time he got, but this is exactly what you want from your veteran who has “been there and done that.” It is a small thing, but after a terrible inbound pass from the Memphis loss earlier in the season, and fans continuing to say he shouldn’t even be on the team, it is nice to see he still has a little gas left in the tank. I still don’t understand why Malone doesn’t go 12 deep, Steve Kerr does and look at his success. That is a different story for another day though.
If you don’t believe he was productive with the little time he got, well the +4 differential from last night may change your mind.
Miller is someone is does not have temerity and has the right amount of experience to guide this young core. He has the right amount of confidence to go along with one of the best shooting strokes in the game. It would be wise for some of the young guys who need assistance with their shot to seek his advice.
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Whatever advice he gives at times is most likely very valuable, especially when you consider he is the only player on this team with a NBA Finals ring.