Zach Randolph resisted McMillan?s plea for better work habits and to be a low-post presence for the Blazers. Randolph gradually drifted outside to do more shooting on the perimeter, leaving his team void of inside scoring presence and irritating his new coach, who also wants him to make an increased commitment to defense.
 
But there is a misperception swirling about Randolph?s future in Portland.
 
Randolph isn?t asking for a trade. Neither is his coach.
 
?Zach Randolph can play for Nate McMillan,? the coach says.
 
Randolph thinks that, too, though he admits he misses Cheeks.
 
?Ain?t never had no (NBA) coach but Cheeks,? Randolph says. ?We were close. He made me into the player I am. Taught me everything I know about the league.?