2017 NBA free agency: 5 best bargain deals
5. Alan Williams: 3 years, $17 million (Phoenix Suns)
Alan Williams is only a backup big, and on a more competitive team, he might not even crack the rotation. But after what he showed in extended minutes down the stretch last season, the Phoenix Suns were right to re-sign the hometown native to a bargain contract.
For three years and $17 million, the Suns retain an undersized fan favorite known for his elite rebounding skill, high-level production in limited minutes and yes, his patented bench celebrations.
On a cheap deal, with the final two years being fully non-guaranteed, the Suns are getting great value here regardless of what happens with Tyson Chandler and Alex Len‘s restricted free agency.
The final two years of Alan Williams's 3-year, $17 million deal with the Suns are fully non-guaranteed, league sources tell ESPN.
— Zach Lowe (@ZachLowe_NBA) July 27, 2017
Though he only averaged 7.4 points and 6.2 rebounds in 15.7 minutes per game for the season, when he received ample playing time after the All-Star break, Big Sauce posted 11.4 points and 9.1 rebounds in 22.6 minutes per game while shooting 51.4 percent from the field. He also racked up 12 double-doubles in those 24 games.
Big Sauce won’t be able to take opponents by surprise with his hustle again in 2017-18, but he’s only 24 years old, provides frontcourt depth and does so at a more than fair price. During a rebuild, having a likable, team-oriented player like Williams is definitely a value play.