Reggie Miller tormented the Knicks, and their fans, like Spike Lee (r.), during his playing days.
Noted trash talker Reggie Miller weighs in on Kevin Garnett-Carmelo Anthony scuffle: families are off limits
NBA Hall of Famer says that even with trash talking, a subject he knows well, 'there is a code of conduct.'
By Frank Isola / NEW YORK DAILY NEWS
Reggie Miller was known for delivering in big games and for running his big mouth.
But even for a renowned trash talker like Miller there was always one topic that is off limits.
"You don't ever talk about anyone's family," says Miller, the former Indiana Pacers shooting guard. "Even with trash talking there is a code of conduct."
Miller spoke to the Daily News after reports surfaced that Celtics forward Kevin Garnett incited Carmelo Anthony on Monday by reportedly making disparaging comments about Anthony's wife, La La Vasquez, during Boston's 102-96 victory.
Anthony would not reveal what Garnett said to him but Anthony was angry enough to wait for Garnett near the Celtics team bus afterwards.
"Boys will be boys," said Miller, who along with Marv Albert will broadcast Thursday's Knicks-Pacers game on TNT. "We don't really know what KG said. We've only heard the reports. But family members, mothers and fathers, kids and especially spouses are off limits. That's taboo."
During his Hall of Fame career, Miller memorably traded insults with Knicks guard John Starks, Michael Jordan and Spike Lee.
"But I never made it personal," Miller added. "I would try to be clever and funny."
Miller does not believe the NBA should suspend Anthony for shouting at Garnett outside the Celtics locker room and later at the exit ramp at Madison Square Garden.
The league is investigating the incident which could result in fines and/or suspensions for both players.
"Carmelo shouldn't be suspended because he didn't do anything," Miller said. "I hope not."
The Knicks enter Thursday's game with a 23-11 record. Miller says he "loves" what the Knicks have done after originally being skeptical about adding so many older players during the offseason.
"When I looked at their roster I thought 'oh boy, are they trying to win the AARP league championship,’" Miller said. "But when you look at each player individually they all bring a certain skill set whether it's Jason Kidd, Marcus Camby or Kurt Thomas."
Miller praised both Mike Woodson and Tyson Chandler but says the one who gets the most credit, especially for the Knicks improvement on the defensive end, is Melo.
"That's because Melo has bought in," he said. "This is a different player from the one I watched in Denver and when he first came to New York. He's diving into the stands, defending and doing other things to help his team win. He's been great."
Miller says that Anthony is "in the conversation" for MVP but believes Miami's LeBron James has been the league's top player up to this point.
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