Why the Jared Dudley signing is perfect for the Suns
Jul 4, 2016, 7:00 PM
Washington Wizards forward Jared Dudley shouts to a referee after being called with a foul against the Utah Jazz during the second half of an NBA basketball game Friday, March 11, 2016, in Salt Lake City. The Jazz won 114-93. (AP Photo/Rick Bowmer)
(AP Photo/Rick Bowmer)
Jared Dudley is expected to sign a three-year, $30 million deal with the Phoenix Suns. Empire of the Suns’ Bryan Gibberman and Kellan Olson discuss how Dudley fits with the team and more.
Kellan Olson: Gibby, the Suns may not have the last two MVP’s on their team, but they agreed to a reported three-year, $30 million deal with former fan favorite Jared Dudley Friday night. What were your initial thoughts on the signing?
Bryan Gibberman: Well, since the greatest basketball team ever assembled is now in their division it’s not a bad time to have a little bit of patience.
There are multiple angles to attack when it comes to Phoenix signing Dudley, but let’s start with what he means for their lineups. The Suns will now look like a more traditional modern NBA team, presumably starting Dudley and P.J. Tucker at the two forward positions. He helps their court spacing and will open up driving lanes for both Devin Booker and Eric Bledsoe.
The reported contract’s value is also excellent.
Olson: While he’s not a great one, Dudley also gives the Suns another two-way player. Tyson Chandler (when healthy), Tucker and Bledsoe are the only three on the roster who could hold that claim. That makes everyone better, and maybe more importantly, sets an example for the young guys about hard work in all aspects of the game.
That example, of course, extends to the mentor role he can play for Dragan Bender and Marquese Chriss.
Gibberman: There will come a point this season where his minutes get limited to allow the young kids to get experience, so Dudley’s understanding of what his role here is important. His ability to shift playing the three and four is also important.
Remember, P.J. Tucker is in the final year of his contract and having Dudley around makes it easier to trade him at the deadline if they so choose. Dudley can also slide into that position next year if Tucker walks and T.J. Warren doesn’t prove he’s capable of handling a starting role.
Olson: The crucial point here is Dudley’s not a placeholder while also playing a vital role in the rebuilding process. He puts the team in a better spot on the court and in the future.
That was the best case scenario for the Suns’ offseason and so far, they’ve done it with their draft and Dudley.
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