Former Ute Sees Signs of the Times

The free agent market it sinking, and nobody knows it better than former Ute Andre Miller.

The 33-year-old Miller, who helped take Utah to the Final Four, went into free agent season looking for a three-year, $30 million deal. Now teams are offering him one year at under $6 million.

Part of that is his age, part the economy.

Still, it’s been a nice run for Miller. Last year he averaged 16.3 points and 6.5 assists. His value in the future will be as a backup. While he’s not the player he once was, he would be one a fine reserve if a team decides use a mid-level exception to sign him.

With collective bargaining looming between the players’ union and the NBA, it is clear the league is looking through different eyes than it was last time. Despite what Carlos Boozer said, there are no guaranteed raises. He was lucky to tread water, salary-wise. If Miller plays next year, he’ll be doing so at a considerable discount.

Meanwhile, the players’ union is going to have to get used to that concept, too. Owners say their team revenues are way down, and when revenue drops, so do salaries. Once guys play out their existing contracts, and negotiate other ones, many will find they are playing for less.

But don’t expect anyone of note to leave for Europe, or drop out to work in another field, either. The global economy isn’t doing well, either.

Even at a discounted rate, players know they won’t find better work. Anywhere.

High spending owners should have figured that out long ago.