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Darren Collison could be out for season; Andre Miller making case for re-signing

Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports

There's always The Professor.

The Sacramento Kings may soon be forced to turn the reigns of the offense over to Andre Miller, Ph.D., letting the 38-year-old veteran mentor interim starter Ray McCallum on the job.

With Darren Collison's hip flexor strain turning from day-to-day to week-to-week, there's growing concern that he won't return this season, according to a report from Marc Spears of Yahoo Sports. With the Kings 20-35, out of the playoff race and in need of securing a top-10 pick, lest they lose it, taking caution with Collison is warranted.

They'll also want to ensure Collison heals properly, as he has two years and $10.2 million remaining on his deal. In 45 games since joining Sacramento as a free agent this summer, Collison has averaged a personal-best 16.1 points with 3.2 rebounds and 5.6 assists while posting the best offensive efficiency marks of his career.

The extended absence of Collison will make McCallum the full-time starter under new head coach George Karl, an intriguing prospect. McCallum has averaged 5.5 points and 2.2 assists in 86 games over his first two seasons but has looked better in his three starts, averaging 9.3 points, 4.3 rebounds and four assists.

It also means continued playing time for Miller, who is hoping to re-sign with the Kings this summer. A 16-year veteran, Miller is averaging 3.7 points and 2.9 assists in 54 games, numbers that have jumped to 5.3 and 4.7, respectively, in three games since joining Sacramento.

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