Phoenix Suns: Complete 2017 offseason grades

Bringing back Big Sauce

It took more than a week, but the Suns finally made their first move of free agency by agreeing to re-sign Phoenix native and fan favorite Alan Williams to a three-year, $17 million deal. Only the first year worth $6 million is guaranteed, however.

That last tidbit was odd at the time, given Alex Len‘s unresolved status as a restricted free agent and the fact that Tyson Chandler will turn 35 years old before the upcoming season, but the Suns will get at least one more year of Big Sauce’s trademark hustle, put-backs and unforgettable bench celebrations.

Williams’ infectious humor and sense of team camaraderie were his calling cards until the end of last season, when the Suns’ youth movement (and Chandler being shut down) opened up minutes for him. He made the most of them, outplaying Alex Len to the tune of 11.4 points and 9.1 rebounds in 22.6 minutes per game after the All-Star break.

Sauce is a bit undersized at 6’8″, and since he’s already 24 years old, the upside here is limited. But with the team’s center position in flux until one of Len/Dragan Bender/Marquese Chriss proves they can man the 5-spot, this is an extremely affordable deal for a truly elite rebounder.

Williams won’t be expected to grow into a starting role, but according to Basketball Insiders‘ Tommy Beer, he became just the fourth player this century to average at least 17 points and 14 rebounds per 36 minutes for an entire season.

As the Dan Majerle Hustle Award indicates, Big Sauce will simply be expected to leave it all on the court, rack up rebounds in limited minutes and finish around the basket. At less than $6 million a season, the Suns maintained their flexibility while retaining a fan favorite and useful bench piece.

Grade: A-