Brandon Roy and Andre Miller develop chemistry

[Warren2ThaG]

Brandon Roy and Andre Miller develop chemistry

"The Trail Blazers' marquee player and marquee free agent acquisition finally played in the same lineup during Friday's practice, and early indications are that the duo's on-court chemistry is solid.

 

Brandon Roy and Andre Miller played in the same backcourt for most of practice, running through drills, workouts and full-court scrimmages with a lineup that also featured Travis Outlaw, Juwan Howard and Greg Oden.

 

Roy said he and Miller formed an instant connection and the team "didn't miss a beat" with them on the court together. Roy also praised the point guard's unselfish play, deft passing, strong defense, versatility and basketball IQ. The chemistry between these two stars is one of the most pressing issues of training camp and Roy said a bond might develop faster than some expect.

 

"I liked it; I liked it," Roy said. "I don't think it's going to be nearly as hard as people think. I think it's going to be pretty simple. It was the first day, but there wasn't even a moment where I was like, 'All right, this might be a struggle.' It was pretty cool from the jump. Even (Thursday) night, when we were going over plays (in the same unit), I was like, 'This is flowing ... really smooth.'"

 

Roy, who is strongest with the ball in his hands, said Miller insisted that Roy run the offense on several occasions Friday and then flourished as an off guard. More than once, Roy said, he handled the ball in half-court sets and registered an assist by passing to a cutting Miller for a layup.

 

"People think he's a ball-dominant point guard, but he's not," Roy said. "I remember watching him last year. There were times when Andre would handle it and times when (someone else) would come in … and handle it. Andre just kind of plays. He doesn't have to have (the ball). A couple times today, he was like, 'You take the point.' I was like, 'Cool.' That's what I kind of wanted to see, because (Steve) Blake lets me do that. I kind of like a point guard that let's me have (the ball) sometimes."

 

Roy said he is starting to see the benefits of playing alongside Miller. Both can post up on offense, both excel off the pick and roll and both can initiate offense. What's more, Roy said, Miller's defensive versatility is an asset because he can not only contain point guards, but shooting guards and some small forwards, as well.

 

It was only their first workout together, but Roy left impressed and, more importantly, encouraged."

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http://blog.oregonlive.com/behindblazersbeat/2009/10/trail_blazers_notes_brandon_ro.html

[Dr. Feelgood]

That's what I like to hear. Cannot wait for this damn off season to end already.

[Poe]

I like what this organization has done. It won't be too long before they start looking like a championship squad.