The Phoenix Suns have received an unexpected boost this season from guard Collin Gillespie, whose impactful contributions as a defender and 3-point shooter have solidified his role on the team. However, Gillespie’s tenure in Phoenix may soon face uncertainty; his current contract, which pays him $2.3 million this season, is set to expire this summer, making him an unrestricted free agent.
Gillespie’s performance this year has consistently exceeded initial expectations, often shining as a reliable player even in the team’s tougher matches. His blend of shooting ability, playmaking skills, and solid defense has made him one of the best value contracts in the NBA. Given his development and performance, he is well-positioned to command a significantly higher salary on the open market, potentially tripling or quadrupling his current earnings.
While the Suns could utilize Gillespie’s Bird Rights to offer him a substantial raise, they might still be at a financial disadvantage. Other teams are likely to pursue him as well, particularly those looking for a strong supporting or backup point guard. This demand could lead to offers that surpass what the Suns can provide, especially with the team’s current payroll constraints.
The Suns are facing significant financial commitments, including Devin Booker’s looming contract increase to $57 million next season, alongside payments to other notable players such as Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, and Grayson Allen. Additionally, the $19 million obligation to Bradley Beal until 2030 complicates their salary cap situation further, making it challenging to accommodate Gillespie’s anticipated raise while constructing a competitive roster.
Should Gillespie depart, the Suns may struggle to find a comparable replacement, particularly since their current roster lacks adequate depth at the point guard position. If he chooses to seek opportunities elsewhere, it would leave a notable gap in the Suns’ lineup, compelling them to look for alternative, budget-friendly options in free agency.
The situation presents a bittersweet challenge for the Suns, as they grapple with the potential loss of a key player while navigating their financial future. Despite the uncertainties ahead, there remains hope among fans that the team’s management can find creative solutions to retain Gillespie or discover new talent to fill any void left behind.