In what is shaping up to be a pivotal offseason for the Phoenix Suns, the team is making strategic moves to secure its core players. One such decision that’s caught the attention of basketball insiders is the expected re-signing of forward Royce O’Neale.
According to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, speaking on his Hoop Collective podcast, the Suns are set to keep O’Neale on board. “They’re going to re-sign Royce O’Neale,” Windhorst stated confidently, a move that RealGM confirms is “going to get done.”
O’Neale, who is set to celebrate his 31st birthday this Wednesday, has proven to be an invaluable asset for the Suns, especially following his mid-season move from Brooklyn as part of a three-team trade.
His versatility on the court has been evident as he played 79 regular season games, maintaining averages of 7.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.8 assists. His three-point shooting at a 37.0 percent clip over an average of 24.7 minutes per game has made him a critical component of the Suns’ strategy.
Phoenix Suns’ Financial Strategy Behind Keeping Royce O’Neale
The Suns’ decision to retain O’Neale is not just about his performance on the court; it’s also a savvy financial move. As the team faces salary cap constraints, having O’Neale’s Bird rights allows Phoenix to exceed the cap to sign him to a maximum salary.
This maneuver is crucial for the Suns as it gives them greater flexibility in managing their roster finances. “As long as ownership is willing to foot the bill,” Windhorst added, “Phoenix is incentivized to increase O’Neale’s salary to have a larger contract for matching purposes.”
This strategic financial planning is essential for the Suns, who are projected to be well over the league’s highly restrictive second tax apron next season. The limitations imposed by this cap situation mean that Phoenix cannot aggregate salaries in trades, making O’Neale’s contract a pivotal factor in future team-building exercises.
Royce O’Neale’s Journey and Impact
Royce O’Neale’s journey to becoming a key player for the Suns is a testament to his hard work and dedication. Starting his professional career in Europe after his time with the Baylor Bears, O’Neale has developed into a solid 3-and-D player, a role that has become increasingly valuable in today’s NBA landscape.
After spending the first five years of his NBA career with Utah and then moving to Brooklyn, his experience and skill set have found a fitting home in Phoenix.
As the NBA Finals approach and the offseason negotiations begin to take shape, all eyes will be on how the Suns continue to navigate their financial and strategic challenges. Retaining Royce O’Neale not only secures a proven talent but also aligns with the team’s broader objectives to remain competitive in the challenging Western Conference.
In conclusion, as the Suns gear up for another promising season, the re-signing of Royce O’Neale could very well be one of the keystones of their strategy. His ability to impact the game from beyond the arc and his defensive prowess make him an indispensable part of the team’s fabric. Phoenix Suns fans have every reason to be optimistic about the upcoming season as the team continues to build around its core strengths.
Source: Yardbarker
