Milicic Finds Home With Memphis
July 12, 2007 by Angelo Fernandez
Filed under Player Movement
I’m sure it was quite a surprise for Darko Milicic when he suddenly became an unrestricted free agent following the news that the Somics’ Rashard Lewis would be going to Orlando. Milicic originally had a contract offer on the table but was later rescinded since acquiring Lewis would mean no cap space to keep the young Yugoslavian.
What originally caused his Darko’s agent to fume up appears to be a blessing in disguise. The moment Darko became a free agent the Memphis Grizzlies expressed interest. Finally the Grizzlies signed Milicic to a three year deal and this could be the start of a wonderful relationship between the club and the young big man.
In spite of having a bad show last season the Grizzlies are a very talented young team that has what it takes to make it back to the playoffs. He’ll be a nice complement to Pau Gasol along with Mike Miller, Rudy Gay, Hakim Warrick and the rookie Mike Conley Jr. Coach Marc Iavaroni came from the Suns up tempo system but admits he’s really more from the controlled style of Pat Riley. Whichever way Iavaroni decides to play, Darko can be a good fit with his speed, rebounding and blocking ability.
Hopefully Memphis can be the place Darko can really shine and play for for a long time. Hopefully Memphis cn be the place he can show why he was drafted number 2 in his draft!
Milicic has a lotofupside but will always be known as “The Pick before Melo, D-Wade, and C-Bosh”. I think he can have a solid NBA career, but he is not worth 7 Million dollars a year.