Miami made a wonderful addition this evening, when GM Bob came to terms with free agent Panzer on a contract. Not only does the team gain a great player who can make an impact, but Bob got him without paying a fortune. "This is one of those signings that you just feel good about," he said in an interview after the announcement was made. "I'm not sure what all the fuss was over the 'marquee' free agents, as Panzer is just as good. Sometimes it just seems that whenever a big-market team gets hot on a player, the price goes through the roof even if there are other better or comparable players."

Panzer claimed to be satisfied during the interview as well, but definitely had to be disappointed with the turn of events. He was offered three times that salary by his former team, but decided to head to free agency to get the big money. Somehow, fate didn't smile on him, as he wound up getting ignored by the teams that were out to spend and signed by Miami at bargain prices. "Even his backup is making more than this," said his agent. "We'll have to think holdout next season if Bob is unwilling to renegotiate the contract to something a little more fair."

A summary of other free agent signings:
Toronto signed C E.Harper for $2.38M/1 year (talent=C, grade=A).
Toronto signed C C.Byrum for $2.32M/1 year (talent=C, grade=A).
Boston signed PF A.Jasper for $1.96M/1 year (talent=C-, grade=A).
Houston signed PF C.Robertson for $1.88M/1 year (talent=C-, grade=A-).
Houston signed PF F.Hopkins for $1.78M/1 year (talent=D+, grade=A-).
Houston signed PF C.Pearson for $1.76M/1 year (talent=D+, grade=A-).
Phoenix signed C V.Carey for $1.42M/1 year (talent=C, grade=A).
Phoenix signed C H.Shaw for $1.06M/1 year (talent=C-, grade=A).
Phoenix signed C W.King for $0.78M/1 year (talent=C-, grade=A).