If you haven’t already heard, after two long years out of basketball, Darius Miles is returning to the NBA, or at least attempting to. The name probably sounds familiar to most of you, but for those who haven’t followed the NBA for years, here’s a little background information.
Miles was drafted third overall in the 2000 draft by the LA Clippers. After two years, he was traded the the Cavaliers, who then decided two years later that he wouldn’t mesh well with young Lebron James for character reasons (that should tell you something). He then spent three years on the infamous “Jail Blazers” and was as famous for his attitude as his phenomenal athletic ability. Then the infamous arthroscopic knee surgery took place. Miles’ knee was so far gone, that it was deemed “career-ending” by the NBA.
Flash back to two years later in the here and now. Miles is attempting a comeback, something that would be unheard of if not for the fact that Miles is still only turning 27 years old. Hes just hitting what should be his prime, and if he has half the athleticism he used to, could contribute to the NBA. He seems pretty confident, saying “I feel like I’m a starter in this league — on a lot of teams I really should be a starter”. He also said that what he really wants is to come off the bench for a playoff team.
Here is why any contending team should snap Miles up.
a) Hes only asking for the minimum, which means hes one of those cheap veterans that can make oh so big a difference in the stretch run, while still enabling you to give your other guys big money.
b)If he can’t make it past ten games, then you didn’t lose too much, because he obviously wasn’t in anybody’s plans before a week ago. Low risk, potentially very high reward (a double digit scoring sixth man, with potential to be a great defender)
c)The man is an athletic marvel. Flat footed, he jumped and touched the top of the backboard square. That’s 11 feet off the ground! We already know he can score too, so even if hes unable to play at the same level he used too, hopefully the injury has helped him mature.
Deceptively Quick thinks otherwise though, talking about Miles attitude problems, and examines the more troubled side of Miles. We all know how talented he is, but is the attitude there yet?
In any case, I personally would like to see him head to the Hornets. Chris Paul is mature beyond his years, and the idea of a ridiculous Chris Paul to Darius Miles highlight reel just makes me shiver. Besides, New Orleans has all the things Miles wants, and he brings things to the table that can only make them better. Not too mention do a little damage to Portland too, who should be taking over the league within five years.
