Well, no, he's not better than Branch. He and his agent, Eugene Parker (shocking, I know), turned down the offer he was given, he tore one of his quadriceps (lord knows how mobile he is now), and, no offense, but rumors of his "breakout season" are greatly exaggerated. So, any 'love' for him would have been surprising, IMO.
His loss, as far as I'm concerned. Have fun in Oakland, but would love to have you back.