The End of the Chris ‘Birdman’ Andersen Era for the Denver Nuggets

Some folks think pro basketball is filled with whiny, tattooed, overpaid, crybabies and at times it can be. It is also home to some big tattooed, hardworking, big hearted guys like Chris "Birdman" Andersen. Sure he has dealt with more than his fair share of issues on and off the court, but he has taken care of his issues, worked hard and come back from them all while being one of the most down to earth, caring men in the NBA. That is why it is sad for me to report the Denver Nuggets have cut Birdman from the team.

The Nuggets cut Birdman from their roster and signed in his place free agent Anthony Randolph. Denver used the NBA's amnesty clause to waive the recently seldom-used Andersen, a source said.

Each team is allowed to use its amnesty clause once during this new collective bargaining agreement. The team still has to pay the player the money on the contract - Andersen is due to make around $4.5 million next season and $4.8 million in 2013-14 - but it doesn't affect the team's overall salary cap. Last season, Andersen appeared in only 32 games, averaging 5.3 points and 4.6 rebounds in 15.2 minutes.

It also is a sad end to the tenure of a fan favorite in Denver. At his peak, back in 2008-09, Andersen was a key fixture on the team that advanced to the Western Conference finals, swatting shots and soaring for dunks, while numerous fans wore his jersey or even sported Birdman-like mohawk hair-dos.

Andersen has also been around for a long time, starting his NBA career in Denver back in 2001 and playing for the Nuggets until 2004. Andersen spent a few years in New Orleans and then was kicked out of the league for drug use, but cleaned up and took advantage of his second chance by coming back to Denver in 2008 and having the best years of his career.

His career again took a left turn on May 10, 2012, when 9News reported Andersen's home was the target of an investigation of a suspected internet case by the Douglas County Sheriff's Office Internet Crimes Against Children Unit. No charges have ever been filed.

Some love him, others can't stand him. I have had the opportunity to personally watch Birdman's whole career, and have seen first hand his genuine good guy spirit under all the tattoo's. I will miss you Bird!