The agent for former Chicago Bulls guard Chris Duhon confirmed that the 4 year pro has reached a verbal agreement with the New York Knicks. While it is believed that the Orlando Magic offered Duhon a more lucrative deal, the chance to become a starter swayed him to join the Knicks. Because the Knicks are over the salary cap, to sign Duhon the Knicks used their mid-level exception which, according to NBA.com, is valued at about $5.4 million this season.

Before Knicks fans get too excited, remember that Duhon is not a franchise changing point guard. Assuming he becomes the Knicks starting point guard, he’s probably the fourth best lead guard in the Atlantic Division behind Devin Harris, Rajon Rando and Andre Miller. He lacks quickness, cannot create plays for his teammates on his own, and is an inconsistant outside shooter.

However, Duhon is the only guard on the roster (outside of Mardy Collins, who may lose his roster spot to Duhon) that doesn’t play with a gunners’ mentality. His willingness to execute the game plan should lead to better ball movement in the half-court offense. He is also a solid defensive player.

Overall this is a solid acquisition by the Knicks. With the alternatives being guys like Smush Parker, Sebastian Telfair and Carlos Arroyo, Knicks fans can’t really complain about this acquisition. Duhon makes the team a little better offensively and defensively without breaking the bank.