But it does make the Blazers’ better. Without losing anyone of value` from last years 54 win team, they added a starting PG. Miller’s good, but certainly not great. But he’s better than Steve Blake. Blake is a great backup PG, but a mediocre-at-best starter. Miller is a clear cut starter. So Portland’s starting unit is strengthened, and Portland’s bench is strengthened all in one move.

Miller brings an entirely new skill set to the Blazers. (Which is a positive way of saying that it didn’t look to me as if he fit before we signed him). A point guard who can drive effectively, pass effectively, post-up effectively, and play with a higher tempo is something that the Blazers have lacked. His lack of a three point shot is also very different from what Portland’s used to having on the floor. He doesn’t particularly upgrade our defense, which is a place I thought we needed a lot of improvement, but you can’t have everything.

His contract is also reportedly quite reasonable. 2 years at 7-7.5 per year, with the third year being a team option. That’s perfect for a player of Miller’s age and abilities.

Miller’s no home run, and maybe not everything the Blazers were hoping for, but it’s definitely better than what we had. But probably the best part is not having to hear other Blazer fans playing with ESPN Trade Machine trying to find some way to take advantage of cap-space + Boozer. I’d have signed Eric Snow for 5 years 50 million to end that.