It looked a little dicey there for a bit, but sharpshooter Mike Miller has signed a five-year deal with the Miami Heat.
Miller announced it on Twitter, saying “It’s official” and thanking Heat owner Micky Arison and team president Pat Riley.
The 6-foot-8 sharpshooter becomes the latest player to take less money than he could have made elsewhere to play for the Heat. James, Wade, Bosh and Udonis Haslem all left millions on the bargaining table in order to ensure the Heat would have flexibility to sign players like Miller.
Terms were not immediately disclosed, but Miller’s deal was expected to be worth around $25 million.
It’s all about spacing. Every championship team has had a player or two who specializes in knocking down open jumpers; someone who can make a team pay if the defense leaves them open. Teams won’t be able to double-team off of Miller because he’s going to hit 40% or so of his three-point attempts.
Miller turned down more money to play with the Super Friends. Along with Udonis Haslem, the Heat now have a good core, and can add a few savvy veterans to the mix.
