Just pointing out another thing to look for in your improv, another way for your mind to work. It has nothing to do with what kind of person you are. Be that as it may, you're right, Terry, don't be a clone. One of the great things about jazz is having your own voice and your own way to express yourself.

Well as far as I could tell they were just discussing different styles of improv and which they appreciate more, but I'll try not to worship black Hitler ; ) I would say Cannonball. The reason I say that is because I think it takes more creativity and a bigger understanding to be able to weave a single melodic line through several chord changes, morphing the color of the phrase throughout the changes. What Coltrane played was nuts, and I wouldn't even shake a stick at any of his solo cut on Giant Steps, but I think his stuff is more fun to analyze than it is to listen to. Miles is great, but I don't give him all the credit because he's a trumpet player. That's why most of his stuff worked. Could you picture an saxophonist playing like that? It wouldn't be hip, it would be boring. I much prefer his later stuff.

i don't like to choose who is better just appreciate the difference between the two and steal what you can from both nobody can be just like either, and if you try you will lose yourself. they are apples and oranges

Just listen to every great player, take what you like best from them, and then express it your own way, which ultimately is the only way you can do it.