In a lengthy conversation with the Daily News, Miller revealed that he has not had any discussions with the Sixers about extending his contract, but that he is interested in staying after the coming season. He also said that he met with coach Maurice Cheeks in Los Angeles last month, and that he sent a handful of e-mails and text messages to Stefanski and senior vice president/assistant GM Tony DiLeo during the NBA draft and after the acquisition of free agent Elton Brand.
"I stayed in touch," Miller said. "Normally, I don't talk to anybody in the summer. I stayed involved. Every player wants some type of stability in the long run. At my age [32], I definitely want to see that happen, but you have to weigh your options. They've made strides."
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Miller is in the process of changing agents, and once he has secured new representation is open to talking about the future. In large part because he never has depended on blinding speed, he believes he can continue to play at a high level.
"I'm 28," Miller deadpanned. "You've seen [effective performance] in [older] players like Gary Payton, Sam Cassell, John Stockton. Those guys took care of their bodies. They weren't the quickest, but they knew what they could do. They played within themselves and within the system. I'm trying to go as long as I can. When I feel the need to back down a little as far as practice time to preserve my body, I'll do that. I think I've earned that. I don't think I miss any practices."
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He wonders about the e-mailers and message boarders who said he wasn't happy here, who said he wanted to be back on the West Coast.
"I like the team, I definitely like the way the team has gone," he said. "I never made any comment as far as not wanting to be in Philadelphia. I pretty much came into the situation and did as much as I could to try and turn the situation into a positive. I definitely like the team. I also know that it's a business, that I can't really say where I want to be because anything can happen. I'm happy with the situation right now. There's definitely some upside to the coming season."
Miller talked to the Daily News a couple of hours after the Sixers announced they had agreed in principle to a contract extension for Cheeks.
"That's cool," Miller said. "It's been fine [playing for Cheeks], a learning experience every day for me to play for somebody I followed when I was little. It's definitely something I'm taking advantage of.
"He understands players' bodies. He knows when to push a player, when to back off. He's a player's coach, he blends in well, but at the same time he gets his respect from the players."
I believe Dre can perform at a high level this upcoming season, and maybe the one after that. However, Stefanski has to start looking for someone to eventually replace him.
I believe Dre can perform at a high level this upcoming season, and maybe the one after that. However, Stefanski has to start looking for someone to eventually replace him.
Glad to read Dre is happy in Philly.
I say give Dre a 3 year extension. I am surprised the Sixers and him haven't even started talking yet about a new contract.
Miller says ignore rumors, he likes Philly
