The Portland Trail Blazers and small forward Mike Miller agreed to a contract buyout meaning he is entering free agency. Miller was acquired by Portland this summer. Portland traded two future second-round picks to the Cleveland Cavaliers for Mike Miller and center Brendan Haywood. The Denver Nuggets are interested in Mike Miller if he clears waivers. Why would Denver want Miller?
Mike Miller was drafted 5th overall by the Orlando Magic in 2000. He has played in the NBA for 16 years and suited up for 6 teams. These include the Orlando Magic, Memphis Grizzlies, Minnesota Timberwolves, Washington Wizards, Miami Heat, and Cleveland Cavaliers. Miller is an outstanding three-point shooter. In his NBA career he is 40.7% beyond the arc. His career best percentage for making threes was in the 2009-2010 season when he made 48.0% from the three-point line. Miller can score, averaging 11.3 points per game and 4.4 rebounds per game.
Miller won two NBA championships with the Miami Heat in 2012 and 2013. He was voted Sixth Man Of The Year in 2006. In 2001 he took home NBA Rookie Of The Year.
The Denver Nuggets had interest in acquiring Miller last summer. They offered him a three year $12 million contract. Miller decided to sign with the Cleveland Cavaliers for two years worth $5.5 million. He wanted to play with LeBron James and a chance to win yet another championship. They came up just short, losing to the Golden State Warriors in 6 games in the NBA Championship.
The Denver Nuggets have a busy roster. They have 14 guaranteed contracts, but this is one fewer than the league maximum. The Nuggets could use a veteran like Miller. He can shoot the ball and brings in veteran leadership.
The problem with the Denver Nuggets is they are rebuilding. They have a new head coach, Mike Malone. Why would Miller want to go to a team that is rebuilding? The Denver Nuggets may not make the playoffs this year or next year. Miller is a clutch three-point shooter and should go to a contending team to help them win an NBA Championship.
What do you think of the Nuggets’ interest in Mike Miller?
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