After a much-anticipated decision that had an expected domino effect on the league’s free agents, Mike Miller chose to join ex-teammate LeBron James with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Miller, who has battled back issues for the last few years of his career, averaged just 46 games per season with the Miami Heat. After just three seasons and back-to-back championships, the Heat decided to part ways with the 34-year-old sharpshooter via the amnesty clause.
After a five-season hiatus, Miller ended up back with the Memphis Grizzlies and played each and every single game of the season for them. He quickly evolved into one of the teams most beloved players.
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In South Florida, the Heat regretted their decision. How could he have played only an average of 46 games per season for them but 82 games in Memphis? Maybe the Grizzlies have a team of doctors and physical therapists like the incredible training staff of the Phoenix Suns, but either way, he did.
Miller made 46.7 percent of his three-pointers in the past season. He’ll be no less of a key piece for what King James is building up in Northeast Ohio.
Regardless, it’s not been a bad summer for the team.
The Los Angeles Lakers, in an effort to complete their roster, have reached a two-year $2 million agreement with power forward Ed Davis. A 5.7 points per game on 53.2 percent shooting, Davis is a 25 year-old who might not have much of an upside on him. Great move for the
Lakers
Grizzlies.
The team has had, and seized, an opportunity to reinforce their core and keep true to their “grit-n-grind” play. As of July 16, they’re bringing back Zach Randolph, Marc Gasol, Tony Allen and Courtney Lee.
Also, the team snagged an eight-time All-Star from the Dallas Mavericks in the title-hungry Vince Carter. At $4 million per year, this move could be considered a huge steal for a team who’s as cap-limited as the Grizzlies.
“I’m able to come in and hopefully get us over the hump. That’s the goal. Go as far as possible and hopefully hold up that O’Brien trophy here in Memphis. So why not make that the goal?” – Vince Carter, AP interview
Did I mention they got Summer League superstar Jordan “Grizzly” Adams with the 22nd pick in the NBA Draft?
Sure, the team lost a great role player in Mike Miller, but they’ve been able to keep coming up with some of solid moves in the 2014 offseason.
Hey, at least it’s been way better than the Houston Rockets’ offseason.
Robert Pera > Daryl Morey.