An NFL Fan’s Guide to the 2015-16 Timberwolves

Apr 8, 2015; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Sacramento Kings guard

(22) keeps the ball away from Utah Jazz guard

(11) during the fourth quarter at EnergySolutions Arena. Utah Jazz on the game 103-91. Mandatory Credit: Chris Nicoll-USA TODAY Sports

Andre Miller = Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning

We’ll start with this point guard-quarterback comparison, which is appropriate considering that the point guard is often referred to as the “quarterback of the team.” Born just five days apart in 1976, Andre Miller is the oldest player in the NBA while Manning is almost the oldest player in the NFL.

They have never relied much on their athleticism and have instead carved out lengthy careers using their smarts. Many an article has been written about Manning’s high football IQ and his numerous pre-snap audibles, while Grantland’s Zach Lowe has nicknamed Miller “The Professor” and often talks about his crafty play.

Miller never put up huge numbers like Manning did for the majority of his career, but he has still played at a high level for a very long time. He will try to pass on some of his smarts and guile to the younger players on the team, including Ricky Rubio and Tyus Jones.

Miller is also deadly in the post by getting great positioning and using his body to create room to operate. Those lessons would be extremely valuable to teach Andrew Wiggins, who has been aggressive in the post but lacks some finesse. Like Manning, Miller has used his high IQ to help make everyone around him better, and that should continue this season.

Next: Big and Bruising is a Way of Life