Smith and Freeman: McMillan Teasing Starting Lineup Change
Brian T. Smith tweets...
------------------------
"McMillan said lineup changes are being considered for tonight's game against Spurs. 'I have until 7:30,' he said."
------------------------
Joe Freeman tweets...
------------------------
Adding a little spice to the situation: Andre Miller walked into Mac's office after shootaround for a close-door meeting. Lasted bout 5 mins
------------------------
Man, this is elaborate.
-- Ben Golliver | benjamin.golliver@gmail.com | Twitter
14 days ago
Ben.
135 comments
0 recs |
Email
PrintComments
Good move
Portland isn’t getting much from Blake, and Miller looks a little pouty coming off the bench.
by ilserpente on Nov 6, 2009 11:21 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
I too could do without
the drama.
My team went to the playoffs in my first year.
by pxilpooshr on Nov 6, 2009 11:30 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
Ever get the feeling that Nate would be comfortable watching Oprah?
He has a knack for interpersonal drama. A lot of his behavior can be understood in context of how he was treated as a player. He is a loyalist, if nothing else – and quite the social participant.
by blacknoiseNW on Nov 6, 2009 1:20 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Oden to the bench?
Rip City Baby...People have no idea what is coming.
Follow my twitter www.twitter.com/PDXBlazersFTW, @PDXBlazersFTW. Lots of random Blazer Posts from links I find around the blogosphere.
by lanepete on Nov 6, 2009 11:36 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
Why?
The only logical reason would be to keep him out of foul trouble. But that just limits him. He needs mins to be effective.
portlandmenonsports.blogspot.com
by Derek @Portland Men on Sports on Nov 6, 2009 11:50 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
But with the minutes, he’s bringing a lot of unnecessary fouls. Its a vicious circle.
Columbus til I die, Columbus til I die. I know I am, I swear I am, Columbus til I die!
by BLAZER_FAN_199 on Nov 6, 2009 11:53 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Mins
I would hope that he learns to stay out of foul trouble, other wise there’s big trouble brewing.
portlandmenonsports.blogspot.com
by Derek @Portland Men on Sports on Nov 6, 2009 1:22 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I agree. I think we all thought his work over the summer would drastically lower the frequency of his fouls. He needs to step up and stop playing desperate. Thats how he hurts himself with the fouls.
Columbus til I die, Columbus til I die. I know I am, I swear I am, Columbus til I die!
by BLAZER_FAN_199 on Nov 6, 2009 1:33 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
So if Nate could just eliminate minutes
altogether, Oden would be dominant, since minutes lead to fouls.
by BlazerDavid on Nov 6, 2009 3:56 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
No reason too, so it seems doubtfull.
by Zaron5551 on Nov 6, 2009 11:53 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
True enough
just u never know with nate =)
Rip City Baby...People have no idea what is coming.
Follow my twitter www.twitter.com/PDXBlazersFTW, @PDXBlazersFTW. Lots of random Blazer Posts from links I find around the blogosphere.
by lanepete on Nov 6, 2009 12:12 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I'm thinking...
Nate is giving Andre a chance to prove he belongs in the starting line-up. I think if we see them play a few games with him in the starting line-up, we will see he does. I think he will work very well with LaMarcus, Martell and Greg. I want to see some lob passes!!! The Spurs front line can’t jump!!
by jenstcy on Nov 6, 2009 11:53 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
That's the thing about Miller. Even if he doesn't fit as well as steve with brandon, he makes every other player in the starting lineup look a lot better. You gotta start him and let Roy adjust, which if he's really a superstar he will.
by Zaron5551 on Nov 6, 2009 11:55 AM PST up reply actions 1 recs
true
I’d like to see Brandon play a little better off the ball, a la Wade.
by kobisportsguy on Nov 6, 2009 11:56 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I think it would help Brandon and the team for him to learn to play off the ball for all of the game, but the last 3-6 minutes. Then the team can switch to all Brandon if necessary. It would make the games easier on Brandon and his teammates.
by Zaron5551 on Nov 6, 2009 11:59 AM PST up reply actions 1 recs
Ya
For how much I have heard Roy talk about trying to take less of a pounding on his body, he seems to ignore the easiest way to accomplish that, playing of a good point guard and not always dominating the ball…
by Rudiculous on Nov 6, 2009 3:25 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed...
Roy needs to step his game up!
And I mean that by becoming a more complete player, off the ball skill, getting somone other than Blake involved, and defense…Don’t get me wrong, he destroys everybody 1 on 1 but I like to think his ceiling is much higher!
"Do me a favor. Put your lip over your head... and swallow." Max Goldman
by clinchmobb on Nov 6, 2009 12:00 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I keep wondering why Roy struggles to play off the ball with Miller at point
when he did that so well in the All-Star game with Chris Paul.
by MiledAnimal on Nov 6, 2009 12:23 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
good point!
He has thrived in that role in both all-star games!
"Do me a favor. Put your lip over your head... and swallow." Max Goldman
by clinchmobb on Nov 6, 2009 12:33 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Actually--for what it's worth--Roy said he didn't enjoy that experience
He said he’s more comfortable with the ball in his hands, not being reduced to a spot-up shooter.
"We don't back down to nobody." --Joel Przybilla
by hurryup09 on Nov 6, 2009 1:17 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Roy is a point guard
but needs a point guard defender to play alongside him and bring the ball up. Roy wants Bayless in the lineup.
by blacknoiseNW on Nov 6, 2009 1:35 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Roy is not a point guard
his ability to set up teammates is subpar, average at best.
How did you guys win that?
"We scored enough points. We scored 107, they scored 105.
-Nate McMillan Postgame, 3/4/2009
by douglast on Nov 6, 2009 1:38 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
his ability to set up his teammates is excellent
Roy sets up his teammates by breaking his defender down, drawing the help defense and dishing to an open shooter. It is simple, but effective – and most of the time Roy will give it up on a regular basis. This is why he was fourth among all shooting guards in assists per game, last year.
That said, I know where your criticism is coming from and I agree that Roy could be better. He could be better at involving big men in his assist totals and he could be better at running the fast break.
However, Roy is a legitimate first scoring option even as the “point guard”, and all other scoring options are secondary when he is THE point. Remember – a point is simply the offensive player responsible for handling the ball until a scoring opportunity comes up. Point guards/forwards/centers can only “set up” their opponent if they are breaking down the defense. Nobody on the Blazers is better at that then Roy.
by blacknoiseNW on Nov 6, 2009 1:58 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Roy generally struggles to get guys easy baskets, especially the bigs...
Most of his assists come on a kickout to an open shooter, which isn’t the most reliable strategy long term. I think he is a very good passer for a sg, and probably a below average to average passer as a pg…
by Rudiculous on Nov 6, 2009 3:28 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
this was essentially what I was trying to say
How did you guys win that?
"We scored enough points. We scored 107, they scored 105.
-Nate McMillan Postgame, 3/4/2009
by douglast on Nov 6, 2009 3:28 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I don't like the binary view of PG vs SG
Guards are guards. They have different skill sets and can play different rolls at different times in the game. Brandon is an SG with extremely strong 1 on 1 skills that he uses to set up teammates, but he is definitely not a “playmaker/distributor” to the same degree Miller is. Do you see Roy making lob passes, post entry passes, half court passes, and pick and roll passes the way Miller has throughout his career? Absolutely not.
People keep making the mistake of saying Miller and Roy do not fit, and I wonder how they can say that when Nate has barely given them a chance. Many of the minutes Roy and Miller have been on the floor together have been in three guard lineups.
Give Roy and Miller 10 games starting together with Martell, LMA, and Oden. I am willing to bet that a lot of the “concern” being expressed will melt away. Martell should get a lot of open looks. Roy should work on coming off screens to compliment his one on one game.
by upper left corner on Nov 6, 2009 3:32 PM PST up reply actions 3 recs
great post
exactly right
How did you guys win that?
"We scored enough points. We scored 107, they scored 105.
-Nate McMillan Postgame, 3/4/2009
by douglast on Nov 6, 2009 3:46 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I think Miller and Roy fitting together comes down to Nate and Roy making adjustments...
Nate cannot stash Miller in the corner and isolate Roy, it makes zero sense and has happened far too often this season. Miller’s defender will not respect his jumpshot and will sag right into Brandons lanes. I think that is why Miller shot 5 threes in the first 2 games, that is not his game. He hasn’t taken a 3 in the last few games, but he has taken a fair amount of 20 footers, which is also not his game. I think these problems can be blamed on the offensive game plan.
Roy hasn’t help Andre along either, he needs to be more willing to play off the ball and Nate needs to figure out how to make that happen. Roy could drastically reduce the wear and tear on his body if he let Miller do the majority of the playmaking. I think it’s up to Nate to make it happen, the ball is in your court, coach…
by Rudiculous on Nov 6, 2009 3:48 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
you hit it out of the park!
Coach can’t make demands, though, that is not his style. His approach seems to be to assist the players in learning things for themselves. Tell them in practice and expect it on the court. I think this comes across as stubborn or poor coaching but unless the players buy-in, it is hard to make it happen on the court. Demanding it only comes across as the old ‘Sarge’ persona. That’s why you rarely (if ever) hear him yell and scream. Instead he just stands on the sidelines and gives ’em the disapproving stare down in hopes of getting the message across (he does this to the refs, too!). One look at him and you know exactly what went wrong.
"Do me a favor. Put your lip over your head... and swallow." Max Goldman
by clinchmobb on Nov 6, 2009 4:10 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
That's what I've been saying! Great points!
Thank you! I look at it as Roy should want/desire to round himself out as a player. I’d like to see this question asked of him just to hear his response, “What are the weaknesses you see in your game and how do you propose to improve them?” I would love his response would be, “You know, I need to get better getting open and making plays without the ball in my hands and I also would like to improve my playmaking abilities, you know, sort of Like ’Dre, Nash, or CP3.” “I think I’d improve immensely just by playing more with ’Dre and watching him and also trusting his ability to make the play.”
He’s too young to have reached his ceiling and I am sure he knows there is more…
"Do me a favor. Put your lip over your head... and swallow." Max Goldman
by clinchmobb on Nov 6, 2009 3:59 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Rec'd
Every off-season Roy talks about how he wants to work off-the-ball more and get easier looks. When is that going to happen? And is it Nate’s fault or BRoy’s fault when it doesn’t?
"I didn't know I was going to score 52 so I didn't think to Tivo it or nothin." -B Roy
by Dodoh on Nov 6, 2009 4:27 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
There's more to it than just breaking down players
essentially the only situation that Roy has shown an ability to effectively play “point” in is if he is asked to break down his man 1 on 1 and then either score or pass to a guy on the perimeter from there.
As you said, he’s been not been good at using picks to free up guys for open shots, and just bad at getting the ball to a big rolling to the hoop off a pick. He hasn’t been especially good at getting the ball to cutters or shooters in rhythm as part of the offense. He’s a bit of a ball stopper, which isn’t terrible when you’re as good a scorer as he is, but not something you want out of your PG.
As has been said by douglast and rudiculous, he’s an excellent playmaker for an SG, not a great one for a PG. There’s a reason Deron Williams has an assist% almost double Brandon’s while having nearly the same usage.
by Royster on Nov 6, 2009 3:33 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
This is the bottom line for the whole year in my humble opinion. An opinion I formed before collecting any facts I might add.
My team went to the playoffs in my first year.
by pxilpooshr on Nov 6, 2009 12:39 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
No facts needed!
Opinions rule!
but seriously, I agree. Why did we sign a starter in the offseason to a backup role? Just because BRoy says he’s more comfortable with Steve Blake is why. and Nate listened…
"Do me a favor. Put your lip over your head... and swallow." Max Goldman
by clinchmobb on Nov 6, 2009 12:47 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
It's nice that Nate wants to be fair to the players.
But sometimes it’s better for the players if the coach just makes a decision and sticks with it.
by MiledAnimal on Nov 6, 2009 12:52 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
exactly...
if the players are so smart, why do we need a coach?
"Do me a favor. Put your lip over your head... and swallow." Max Goldman
by clinchmobb on Nov 6, 2009 12:57 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Yes. Let Andre start the team and Brandon close the game.
Perfect.
"We're going to play the right way. It ain't about you. It's about us. We can be successful if we play together. And that's what it's about. In this league, playing hard, playing together. Your numbers shouldn't matter." - Coach McMillan
by Hipster Olympic Team! on Nov 6, 2009 1:41 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
If that ever happened, it would be for about 5 seconds.
Columbus til I die, Columbus til I die. I know I am, I swear I am, Columbus til I die!
by BLAZER_FAN_199 on Nov 6, 2009 12:04 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
If Nate is serious about wanting a sparkplug off the bench.
I can think of no one better.
πάτερ, ἄφες αὐτοῖς, οὐ γὰρ οἴδασιν τί ποιοῦσιν.
by T Darkstar on Nov 6, 2009 12:10 PM PST up reply actions 1 recs
lol
"Fernandez, to my eyes, is the Blazer who walks that walk most comfortably. A lot of Portland's fans (egged on, dare I say, by their local broadcasters) lament things like how Ron Artest or Yao Ming get to hit Brandon Roy's arms.
But I suspect Fernandez sees all that and thinks: We get to hit arms! Cool!"
http://myespn.go.com/blogs/truehoop/0-39-135/On-Playoff-Experience.html
"I told Pau the Lakers never win here in Portland; I think it's great." -- Rudy Fernandez
by ratbastird on Nov 6, 2009 12:15 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
*headdesk*
"We're going to play the right way. It ain't about you. It's about us. We can be successful if we play together. And that's what it's about. In this league, playing hard, playing together. Your numbers shouldn't matter." - Coach McMillan
by Hipster Olympic Team! on Nov 6, 2009 1:42 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Rudy! Rudy! Rudy!
"Do me a favor. Put your lip over your head... and swallow." Max Goldman
by clinchmobb on Nov 6, 2009 12:33 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Stop with the bull crap Nate and just say who is going to start...
Red Hot and Rolling
by BlazerFan88 on Nov 6, 2009 12:04 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
I agree with you on this
this uncertainty generally doesn’t work well for players.
"Fernandez, to my eyes, is the Blazer who walks that walk most comfortably. A lot of Portland's fans (egged on, dare I say, by their local broadcasters) lament things like how Ron Artest or Yao Ming get to hit Brandon Roy's arms.
But I suspect Fernandez sees all that and thinks: We get to hit arms! Cool!"
http://myespn.go.com/blogs/truehoop/0-39-135/On-Playoff-Experience.html
"I told Pau the Lakers never win here in Portland; I think it's great." -- Rudy Fernandez
by ratbastird on Nov 6, 2009 12:15 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
He probably doesn't even know yet.
Love.
by L-TrainFTW! on Nov 6, 2009 12:16 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
sadly, i'm sure you're right
nate adapts as needed… it just takes a LOOOONG time. Sometimes it’s better to be decisive instead of right and stand behind the decision.
"Fernandez, to my eyes, is the Blazer who walks that walk most comfortably. A lot of Portland's fans (egged on, dare I say, by their local broadcasters) lament things like how Ron Artest or Yao Ming get to hit Brandon Roy's arms.
But I suspect Fernandez sees all that and thinks: We get to hit arms! Cool!"
http://myespn.go.com/blogs/truehoop/0-39-135/On-Playoff-Experience.html
"I told Pau the Lakers never win here in Portland; I think it's great." -- Rudy Fernandez
by ratbastird on Nov 6, 2009 12:18 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
His slowness is definitely his biggest weakness. He doesn't adjust as fast as he should, this will be a much bigger issue in the playoffs, imo.
by Zaron5551 on Nov 6, 2009 12:19 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed
I can be slow to adapt myself, but once I get a feel for it I become extremely quick. I’m HOPING that Nate is like this. If he’s always going to be slow to change and adapt I believe this will be an issue. As he’s still juggling with new line-ups, I’m giving it a pass. I really think it’ll be something to watch over the next three years though. If he improves from year to year in the speed of decisions and changes, then I won’t worry. If he’s the same… it’s an issue.
"Fernandez, to my eyes, is the Blazer who walks that walk most comfortably. A lot of Portland's fans (egged on, dare I say, by their local broadcasters) lament things like how Ron Artest or Yao Ming get to hit Brandon Roy's arms.
But I suspect Fernandez sees all that and thinks: We get to hit arms! Cool!"
http://myespn.go.com/blogs/truehoop/0-39-135/On-Playoff-Experience.html
"I told Pau the Lakers never win here in Portland; I think it's great." -- Rudy Fernandez
by ratbastird on Nov 6, 2009 12:23 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
That ain't a bad thing, just sayin'.
Love.
by L-TrainFTW! on Nov 6, 2009 12:25 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Seriously! It only makes it a bigger deal than it needs to be.
"We're going to play the right way. It ain't about you. It's about us. We can be successful if we play together. And that's what it's about. In this league, playing hard, playing together. Your numbers shouldn't matter." - Coach McMillan
by Hipster Olympic Team! on Nov 6, 2009 1:42 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Free coaching tip for Nate.
Might be a good idea to post up Miller on Parker.
"I'm at the thingamajig talking the yakety-yak" - Kenny Smith
by blzrfan on Nov 6, 2009 12:14 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Miller gave parker fits
according to the spurs site.
"Fernandez, to my eyes, is the Blazer who walks that walk most comfortably. A lot of Portland's fans (egged on, dare I say, by their local broadcasters) lament things like how Ron Artest or Yao Ming get to hit Brandon Roy's arms.
But I suspect Fernandez sees all that and thinks: We get to hit arms! Cool!"
http://myespn.go.com/blogs/truehoop/0-39-135/On-Playoff-Experience.html
"I told Pau the Lakers never win here in Portland; I think it's great." -- Rudy Fernandez
by ratbastird on Nov 6, 2009 12:16 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
which means
we’ll completely fail in even attempting to exploit this advantage.
How did you guys win that?
"We scored enough points. We scored 107, they scored 105.
-Nate McMillan Postgame, 3/4/2009
by douglast on Nov 6, 2009 12:26 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
wait, using a premier post-up point guard against a skinny, defensively-lacking guard in the post is a good idea?
Woah.
free bayless
by Cablinasian on Nov 6, 2009 12:31 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
mind boggling i know
but then again.. we will probably tell greg to go right at a multiple time all first defense player and then wonder when he cant score
by GreatOden'sRaven on Nov 6, 2009 3:16 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Tell this to Miller!
He wouldn’t post up Bibby either!
"Do me a favor. Put your lip over your head... and swallow." Max Goldman
by clinchmobb on Nov 6, 2009 12:35 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
That's not Miller's fault
he doesn’t call the plays
How did you guys win that?
"We scored enough points. We scored 107, they scored 105.
-Nate McMillan Postgame, 3/4/2009
by douglast on Nov 6, 2009 1:00 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
it is when the 'play' breaks down
and Miller finds himself 1 on 1 with Bibby…
"Do me a favor. Put your lip over your head... and swallow." Max Goldman
by clinchmobb on Nov 6, 2009 1:04 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
He should though.
"I don't always read blogs regarding the Trail Blazers
...but when I do... I read Blazers Edge."
- resurrect_ha28
by FiveOhThree-RipCity!! on Nov 6, 2009 1:05 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I don't think Nate calls every play from the sidelines.
by jksnake99 on Nov 6, 2009 1:07 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
pretty much every set.
free bayless
by Cablinasian on Nov 6, 2009 1:21 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, Blake looks over to him all the time
But slowly things happen that they cannot help and the Blazers Fellowship of the Ring begins to break apart
by Norsktroll on Nov 6, 2009 1:57 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Where's the advantage?
Bibby’s no midget. You’ll notice Miller DID post up Aaron Brooks and Ty Lawson.
"We don't back down to nobody." --Joel Przybilla
by hurryup09 on Nov 6, 2009 1:24 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Of posting up Parker or Bibby?
He has feasted on Parker
and
Bibby ain’t known as a defender!
"Do me a favor. Put your lip over your head... and swallow." Max Goldman
by clinchmobb on Nov 6, 2009 1:50 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
It's just that you usually post up guys smaller than you
That’s where you’ll have an obvious advantage. If you have a post-up game, that is, and Miller does.
"We don't back down to nobody." --Joel Przybilla
by hurryup09 on Nov 6, 2009 3:14 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
unless the small guy is a good post defender...
I am 6’6" and have played a lot of small guys that are great post defenders and shut me down (think Chuck Hayes vs anybody). You post up where the advantage is, that being the matchup where there is the largest margin between a good post player and weak post defender. Versus ATL, that should have been exploited…
"Do me a favor. Put your lip over your head... and swallow." Max Goldman
by clinchmobb on Nov 6, 2009 4:20 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Granted: size isn't everything when it comes to post D
Well, height, anyway. Lower body size & strength are another matter. I’d guess that most of the small guys who shut you down were wide & strong.
As for Miller vs Bibby, I’ll take your word that Bibby is a crummy post defender. (I haven’t checked him out enough to know.) And if he’s weak down there, then sure: Miller should be exploiting that.
"We don't back down to nobody." --Joel Przybilla
by hurryup09 on Nov 6, 2009 5:11 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Why offer tips free?
I’m sure Nate would gladly pay for our wisdom.
"We don't back down to nobody." --Joel Przybilla
by hurryup09 on Nov 6, 2009 1:23 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
YES. The Spurs don't gamble on D much either methinks.
So they’re just begging for the Blazers to punish them.
"We're going to play the right way. It ain't about you. It's about us. We can be successful if we play together. And that's what it's about. In this league, playing hard, playing together. Your numbers shouldn't matter." - Coach McMillan
by Hipster Olympic Team! on Nov 6, 2009 1:44 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
dude. who is gonna guard parker though?
honestly, putting someone long and athletic on him is the best bet if hes on fire. hopefully he just takes himself out of the game like he usually does.
by mandoman10 on Nov 6, 2009 12:26 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Oden!
until he fouls out…
"Do me a favor. Put your lip over your head... and swallow." Max Goldman
by clinchmobb on Nov 6, 2009 12:35 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
let me rephrase..
until he gets 2 fouls in the 1st quarter, then his 3rd in the 2nd quarter, then his 4th in the 3rd quarter, then we’ll save him until 2 minutes in the 4th, pick up his fifth immediately and he’ll sit until the last possession when we need him most…..
"Do me a favor. Put your lip over your head... and swallow." Max Goldman
by clinchmobb on Nov 6, 2009 12:38 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
well, he'll need that sixth against al jefferson sunday
…
…
…
It doesn’t work like that? Really?
by atomiccafe on Nov 6, 2009 12:56 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Too funny!
Also too true……….
2-4 the who
by 24thewho on Nov 6, 2009 1:08 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
My guess?
nobody.
"We're going to play the right way. It ain't about you. It's about us. We can be successful if we play together. And that's what it's about. In this league, playing hard, playing together. Your numbers shouldn't matter." - Coach McMillan
by Hipster Olympic Team! on Nov 6, 2009 1:44 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
If Miller starting....
Causes Brandon to score less, but the other three guys on the floor to score more…isn’t it a net positive?
by tmundal on Nov 6, 2009 12:38 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
yes
bayless leaves over my dead body
START MILLER
B-Roy is selfish (that's not a joke anymore)
by thomasikehara on Nov 6, 2009 12:48 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
For Brandon's star status? No.
For the better of the team? Absolutely.
"I don't always read blogs regarding the Trail Blazers
...but when I do... I read Blazers Edge."
- resurrect_ha28
by FiveOhThree-RipCity!! on Nov 6, 2009 12:50 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Why does Brandon have to score less in the Miller starting PG model?
How about the TEAM scores more because we get more possessions and more scoring opportunities because Dre is running the 1st team offense. Can’t Brandon get his usual 20-25 while others (Greg, LMA, Martel) get more?
by Dobbler on Nov 6, 2009 12:51 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
So I am listening to Dave and Casey on the podcast,
they seem to think we need more point guard defense to keep Odin on the floor and the ball needs to be in Roy’s hands and a shake up at the point position to get the whole team flowing. I could not help but think that they were talking about Bayless leapfrogging to starting at the point, even though they dept mentioning Steve and Dre. So the question is: Does the defense and shake up to gain flow by starting Bayless make sense even with his lack of true point guard skills? After all, Roy should be able to handle most of those responsibilities after Bayless/Roy brings the ball up.
Not being able to handle a hangover will lead to a level of maturity.
Wheels to Jason Quick
by Kampeska on Nov 6, 2009 12:55 PM PST reply actions 1 recs
That would be an incredibly innovative move
By a generally by-the-book coach.
"What happened to Bayless anyway? Did he turn into a pumpkin? Most teams don’t just let #11 picks rot." - Xiane
by MadBlaze on Nov 6, 2009 1:00 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
It means...
Roy should play PG with Rudy at SG, Marty at SF, LMA at PF and GO at C.
Let the other 3 fight it out…in which case B-rex eats Blake while Steve is in an MMA match with Miller!
"Do me a favor. Put your lip over your head... and swallow." Max Goldman
by clinchmobb on Nov 6, 2009 1:02 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Rec'd
for calling Greg Odin. Nothing wrong with subconsciously calling him a Norse God.
by xedubx on Nov 6, 2009 1:07 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
funny stuff
if we had Odin, we wouldn’t be having this conversation
by blacknoiseNW on Nov 6, 2009 1:22 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I highly doubt either of them support starting Bayless
but I haven’t listened to the podcast yet, so maybe you are right….
by Rudiculous on Nov 6, 2009 3:33 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
kept, Oden.
Not being able to handle a hangover will lead to a level of maturity.
Wheels to Jason Quick
by Kampeska on Nov 6, 2009 12:56 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Miller to AI: My way is better
“See Allen, I told you not to complain. Just play poorly off the bench and they will have to start you to get you to play better. If you give them the best reserve lineup in the league they will never lose and then never start you.”
I predicted Miller would start within 2 month after he and Roy learned to play well together. But hey, might as well go all in after 5 games.
by BlazerFanSince1970 on Nov 6, 2009 1:11 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Andre Miller is an evil genius!
I’m glad some Blazer fans aren’t fooled — his diabolical plot to destroy the franchise must be stopped!
by Hawthorne Wingo on Nov 6, 2009 1:19 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
OK, obviously you're joking
But I think there’s a grain of truth to what you’re saying. Namely, while Miller is too much of a pro and team player to deliberately tank it, I think it’s possible he didn’t really have his heart in excelling at a bench role. I expect to see a different level of play from him as a starter.
Though no doubt part of the problem has simply been Miller’s traditional “play yourself into shape” approach to the early season. Many vets approach the long season that way, and clearly it’s worked for Miller.
"We don't back down to nobody." --Joel Przybilla
by hurryup09 on Nov 6, 2009 1:30 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I was joking, but I can't help thinking about what could have been.
Imagine the starters playing at last year’s level or better with an improved Oden for Joel, and Webster for Batum. Then imagine Joel rebounding and Miller and Rudy running fast breaks with LMA and Webster, Miller setting up Rudy and Webster for 3’s or with lob passes, and Miller killing opposing 2nd string PG’s in the paint. Just imagine that team if Miller wanted to lead as one of the league’s best 6th men. He could still be playing 28-30 minutes a game and finishing with Roy. Just imagine that team.
by BlazerFanSince1970 on Nov 6, 2009 1:42 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I think he was less effective with the bench because
the bench is filled with 1-on-1 players who don’t benefit greatly from having a great passer on the floor.
"We're going to play the right way. It ain't about you. It's about us. We can be successful if we play together. And that's what it's about. In this league, playing hard, playing together. Your numbers shouldn't matter." - Coach McMillan
by Hipster Olympic Team! on Nov 6, 2009 1:46 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
The exception, of course, is Rudy
And in fact, Miller & Rudy have had a few nice hook-ups.
"We don't back down to nobody." --Joel Przybilla
by hurryup09 on Nov 6, 2009 5:12 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Do it Nate!
(But most importantly, don’t sub guys every time play stops in the fourth quarter)
I know there will be a learning curve to starting Miller, but it’s better to get that out of the way in November than in March.
by jedge242 on Nov 6, 2009 1:26 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Roy is a better player than Miller
and Miller should defer to him out of respect. Miller doesn’t have the skills to demand respect – past performance notwithstanding. What can you do for me now?
What I have seen from Miller is that he plays the same game as Roy. He passes better, but he takes more risks, makes more mistakes, and doesn’t shoot nearly as well. He plays like he is the first option on offense.
If Miller is going to play nice with Roy, Webster, LMA and Od(in), then he needs to limit his shots to layups and short jumpers – and that only if the defense takes away all other options.
Miller hasn’t played like he is the fifth scoring option on the floor – and that is a problem.
by blacknoiseNW on Nov 6, 2009 1:32 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
I think Miller has been forced to make some plays outside of his skillset
because of the team’s inability to create some space and motion on offense. Once the team adopts a better offensive philosophy Miller’s abilities will be quite apparent.
"We're going to play the right way. It ain't about you. It's about us. We can be successful if we play together. And that's what it's about. In this league, playing hard, playing together. Your numbers shouldn't matter." - Coach McMillan
by Hipster Olympic Team! on Nov 6, 2009 1:49 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I'm down with that
But is part of my dissatisfaction with McMillan that that offensive philosophy is not yet a fundamental
by blacknoiseNW on Nov 6, 2009 1:50 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I don't get it either. Nate says things like "we didn't have any motion"
or “we settled for jump shots”.
I mean, can’t Nate just demand that LMA turn and get into the lane or that Travis draw 2 fouls before he is allowed to shoot a twisting contested 20 foot jumper?
Can’t Nate just a call a play and kick everyones’ ass if they don’t run it? If I were calling plays this team would be even worse but…at least they’d TRY and take the ball to the hole!
"We're going to play the right way. It ain't about you. It's about us. We can be successful if we play together. And that's what it's about. In this league, playing hard, playing together. Your numbers shouldn't matter." - Coach McMillan
by Hipster Olympic Team! on Nov 6, 2009 1:58 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Nate would have already made this change by now
But he reads BE, and he didn’t want it to appear like he’d been pressured by us armchair coaches. That’s fine: let him save face.
"We don't back down to nobody." --Joel Przybilla
by hurryup09 on Nov 6, 2009 1:33 PM PST reply actions 2 recs
I'll rec you for that!
"Do me a favor. Put your lip over your head... and swallow." Max Goldman
by clinchmobb on Nov 6, 2009 1:52 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
It looks like Dre has done a respectable job against Parker.
The Sixers played the Spurs 4 times while Miller was at the helm. Here are the box scores:
http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/boxscore?gameId=290103024
http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/boxscore?gameId=290116020
http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/boxscore?gameId=280114024
http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/boxscore?gameId=280315020
Neither dominated, but a draw against Parker isn’t bad.
Like a unicorn, fast break offense is a mythical creature in Portland.
Offensive production is irrelevant without defensive stops.
Step #1 - Feed Greg. Step #2 - See Step #1
by Sean M on Nov 6, 2009 1:37 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
This all makes Mac look really obtuse.
Seriously, it’s one thing for BE’rs to play armchair QB and call things after the fact, but when SO MANY PEOPLE know exactly how things are going to go down with the starting PG situation?
MacMillan has a knack for pointlessly delaying the inevitable that frustrates the ____ out of me. If there were any evidence that his delayed roster decisions resulted in some sort of long-lasting lessons for the players, I’d call it coaching. To the closely trained eye, it’s obviously just slow reaction skills and a keen sense of denial. The last three years prove the glacial pace of MacMillan’s evolution as a coach.
The team wants to win now, and he’s not ready for them to grow up. Nate’s obvious fear that this group’s growth is out-pacing his own will only serve to pave his road out of Portland.
by BeaconHill on Nov 6, 2009 1:43 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
This comment confuses me.
The team wants to win now, and he’s not ready for them to grow up. Nate’s obvious fear that this group’s growth is out-pacing his own will only serve to pave his road out of Portland.
Are you saying that Nate doesn’t want the team to win because if they do, he’ll be out of a job? I can’t imagine that’s what you’re trying to say, yet that’s how I’m reading it.
?
πάτερ, ἄφες αὐτοῖς, οὐ γὰρ οἴδασιν τί ποιοῦσιν.
by T Darkstar on Nov 6, 2009 2:20 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
They definitely all want to win. No question.
“Win” was the wrong choice of words. I do however feel that Nate has some strange ideas about how to how to bring talented players along and they are realllllllly conservative and predictable. Distilled down, I think I’m saying “Free the Blazers”. Coach is having a really hard time loosening the reigns and accepting that these aren’t a bunch of rookies anymore.
I’m in no way calling for his head. I like Nate and would love nothing more than to see him be the one to take them all the way, but he is his own worst enemy.
by BeaconHill on Nov 6, 2009 2:35 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
What is a point guard supposed to do?
Any yokel (even me) can pass to a guy coming off the screen. Fewer yokels can dump the ball into the post in a perfect position away from the defender. A few yokels can stroke the 3 with excellent efficiency. Fewer yokels yet can make perfectly timed alley-oop passes or hit fast moving targets while simultaneously dribbling at full sprint with defenders draped all over you. Even fewer yokels can break a defender down off the dribble, put a shoulder into a big man, and score the goal while being fouled. The rare yokel can do all this and find an open 3-point shooter or cutting big man for an open J or easy layup. The most rare yokel can do all this and still keep the opposing yokel from doing it to him.
Can Miller do all of these things? Blake? Bayless? Roy?
No. Nope. No. Nope.
However, Roy can do more of these things than anyone, followed by Miller. If we start seeing beautifully-timed alley oops or scintillating bounce passes from Bayless – he might move to the top of the class.
Right now, however – I see Bayless as the best compliment to Roy because he sucks less at what he doesn’t do well than some of the other guys – and he has by far the most potential as a defender of point guards – arguably the most important skill for this team.
by blacknoiseNW on Nov 6, 2009 1:48 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Again---you can't check Rose, Parker, and the like 1-on-1.
If a team wants to contain players like that, it has to swing wings and 2’s over to get the ball out of their hands. Nate runs a switching defense. Nate is very smart—-I’m guessing Bayless isn’t playing because Bayless is not ready to run an offense and/or be a part of Nate’s defensive schemes.
But I’m totally with you in the sense that Bayless appears to be a perfect fit to play alongside Roy—-he just aint ready yet. I say let him play to develop him—-his ceiling is higher than Blake’s and he’s not at the tail end of his abilities like Miller. But this team wants to win now so that kind of limits Bayless’ abilities to get the minutes he needs.
"We're going to play the right way. It ain't about you. It's about us. We can be successful if we play together. And that's what it's about. In this league, playing hard, playing together. Your numbers shouldn't matter." - Coach McMillan
by Hipster Olympic Team! on Nov 6, 2009 1:56 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Also, I certainly don't want to disrespect Blake.
He is a very good shooter and has made some big buckets for this team.
Bayless appears to be a work in progress from the perimeter.
"We're going to play the right way. It ain't about you. It's about us. We can be successful if we play together. And that's what it's about. In this league, playing hard, playing together. Your numbers shouldn't matter." - Coach McMillan
by Hipster Olympic Team! on Nov 6, 2009 2:00 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I agree with both your points
Blake has his usefulness, and no point is a real good defender at the moment. The Blazers have had some games where they take the Parker’s and the CP3’s out of it though – and they did it by team defense.
by blacknoiseNW on Nov 6, 2009 2:01 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Why not both
I don’t see a reason why Miller and Broy can’t function well together on the same unit. Miller is clearly a better point guard and should be utilized in bringing the ball up the court and trying create easy shots in the early offense, making the game easier for everyone, including Broy, but especially the bigs. If this isn’t accomplished in the first half of the shot clock, then get the ball to Broy and let him create. Having an offense where the PG’s main responsibility is to bring the ball up the court and hand it off leads to the stagnant offense where one player (Broy, LMA, Trout) goes 1 on 1 (or more) and the rest of the offense watches. Let’s at least promote as much team offense early in the clock to create easy shots before relying on one player to break down the D on his own. Just a thought.
by Rockstar Parking on Nov 6, 2009 2:13 PM PST reply actions 1 recs
Totally agree
Roy shoudl let Miller do his job. If done well, Roy should still have the ball, just in better places to score – i.e. in places where he doesn’t have to work as hard.
by Tiparillo on Nov 6, 2009 3:32 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Dearest Nate,
As long as you stick with a line-up that does not include our crappy 3-guard line up of Blake, Miller and Roy. and avoid putting the SPAZZ unit in (i.e. Miller, Martel, Trav, Rudy and Greg), I don’t care who you start tonight.
Cheers,
Twiggs
"We believe" -Rudy Fernandez
by twiggs on Nov 6, 2009 2:32 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Thank you Nate
…for setting a rotation.
If that is what you have done.
http://www.blazersedge.com/2009/11/5/1116943/set-blazer-rotations
Enjoy the Ride
by DigitalDaggers on Nov 6, 2009 3:05 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
i sense a trade is coming
bayless leaves over my dead body
START MILLER
B-Roy is selfish (that's not a joke anymore)
by thomasikehara on Nov 6, 2009 3:08 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Bayless isn't as good as everyone thinks he is
lord, ya’ll sound like Paul Allen who falls in love with point guards who aren’t playing. when do the “start Patty Mills” chants begin?
by Tiparillo on Nov 6, 2009 3:32 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
As soon as he's out of street clothes...
I’m advocating a Bayless, Mills, Roy, Miller, Blake 5-guard small-ball lineup that we can go to as soon as GO gets his second foul of the game. Once Batum is back we’ll train him as a guard as well and throw him in for our tricky 6-man unit that we use in the 4th quarter.
by fitsnstarts on Nov 6, 2009 3:43 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I say we get a clean slate and start
Mills
Bayless
Cunningham
Pendergraph
Howard
Our current players just aren’t getting it done…
by Rudiculous on Nov 6, 2009 3:50 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I say "Go Big or Go Home!"
1 – Travis
2 – LMA
3 – Howard
4 – Przybilla
5- Oden
by Tiparillo on Nov 6, 2009 3:52 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Nice
But, I’m going to adjust it just a bit and go with
Mills
Bayless
Freeland
Claver
Pendergraph
Cunningham for 6th man
by fitsnstarts on Nov 6, 2009 3:54 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I am still an honest proponent of a starting linup of
Roy
Rudy
Marty
LMA
Oden
Rudy is a better playmaker than Blake (but less than Miller), roughly equal 3 pt shooter as Blake (and much better than Miller), and equal to or better defender than both. Thoughts?
"Do me a favor. Put your lip over your head... and swallow." Max Goldman
by clinchmobb on Nov 6, 2009 4:27 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I like Rudy and Roy + pg, personally
But I do support the idea of getting Rudy in as a starter. I like where your head is at….
by Rudiculous on Nov 6, 2009 4:31 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
the only hard part
is that we need more defense in a lineup of Rudy, Roy, + PG and our PGs right now are defensive liabilities….(sigh)…
"Do me a favor. Put your lip over your head... and swallow." Max Goldman
by clinchmobb on Nov 6, 2009 4:53 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Well, I can't say I support this move...
But I do believe Roy and Miller will have to learn to play together for this team to improve upon last year. Our bench has been pretty weak so far this season, and I doubt this will help any. There is now a serious lack of playmakers, and a serious overload of jumpshooters in the second unit. Nate has to work it out, hopefully he does…
by Rudiculous on Nov 6, 2009 3:39 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Watch for a surprise lineup change tonight, and I don't mean the starters.
by BlazerFanSince1970 on Nov 6, 2009 5:46 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Well, you were right technically
But of course Bayless got run because three guards started. Someone had to get back-up minutes.
"We don't back down to nobody." --Joel Przybilla
by hurryup09 on Nov 6, 2009 9:03 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Join the community and dive in!
Secondary Sidebar
FanPosts
Community blog posts and discussion.
Recommended FanPosts
Recent FanPosts
FanShots
Quick hits of video, photos, quotes, chats, links and lists that you find around the web.
Recommended FanShots
Certain photos copyright © 2009 by Associated Press or Getty Images. Any commercial use or distribution without the express written consent of Associated Press and Getty Images is strictly prohibited.
