So, Andre Miller, you think the NBA is trying to protect it's young stars by handing you a one game suspension for the 'bump' you gave Blake Griffin... If I'm not mistaken, a 90-foot dash across the court to tackle one of the game's young stars in a fit of revenge is deserving of more than just one game off.
Miller had some words for the NBA front office, saying, "It just shows you how soft the league has gotten, protecting young players. It's not like it was when I came in this league."
Okay, I agree that NBA officiating can be suspect from time to time, but in this instance there's no question about it. Look at the video below, folks, and keep an eye on what's going on under both baskets:
I haven't seen Andre run that fast since... well he's never really been that fast, so I'll leave it at that, but look at the momentum he gathers before hitting Griffin. It's reminiscent of a mountain goat trying to take out an elk. Seriously, it's ridiculous that Miller was allowed to do this and NOT GET CALLED FOR A FOUL.
Don't get me wrong, I like Andre Miller. He's one of the best ally-oopers (I'm making it a word) the game has ever seen, and he's been a strong, veteran leader in the NBA for many years, but saying the league is getting soft for handing out only a one game suspension is tad absurd. Feel lucky that you didn't get more (or even a fine).
These types of plays have never been allowed in the NBA, even when hand-checking was allowed. The only difference between the hard fouls from the 80s and 90s and the one Miller laid on Griffin is that NBA front office officials won't allow players to get away with hard hits with just a flagrant foul anymore. It's family entertainment, whether you like it or not. Hopefully you'll remember this the next time you have the longest active playing streak.
No comments:
Post a Comment