I really did grow to enjoy Andre and I for one will miss, the idea, of what Andre was. (Not the reality of what Andre really is)
*Andre was tough and hard nosed
*Andre would fight for every offensive possesion often times grabbing a big offensive board when the team needed it.
*His ability to pump fake a guy into the air and draw a foul, when he had no real chance to score a basket.
*Those times he'd pick the pockets of opposing players at or near half court that led to quick "surprise" baskets and game changing momentum.
*The fact that he gave up his league "iron man" streak, to make a point to a rookie who had gotten away with a push on him, solely because that's what old school ballers would do.
*His interviews with Barrett after huge road wins, showing no emotion, and looking as if he'd rather be anywhere else but in front of the camera.
What I won't miss however is his maddening ability to make a key turnover late in the game, even though he rarely would turn the ball over the first 46 minutes of it.
His inability to open up the court for Lamarcus to post up down low because he couldn't hit an open 18 footer to save his life.
His unbelievably terrible percentage on technical free throws. I'm not sure anyone keeps that stat but he had to be well below his regular FT%.
...And last, the fact that for as good as he's been throughout his career, and as many playoff series he's participated in, he's never been able to lead his team "over the hump" and on to the second round.
I think it's entirely possible to be a really really good NBA player, a fabulous proffesional, and someone who holds yourself with great dignity and class, but a crappy winner. To me, that's what Andre is. Good luck in Denver Andre, or at least until you play us!
