2018 NBA free agency tracker: Grades for every deal so far
Trevor Ariza: 1 year, $15 million (Phoenix Suns)
Heading into free agency, the Phoenix Suns had glaring needs for a point guard and an established stretch-4. At first, it was a bit puzzling to see them blow the majority of their considerable cap space on yet another wing, Trevor Ariza.
However, there’s no denying the small-ball trend that has swept the league. Ariza is a respected and experienced veteran who can spread the floor (36.8 percent from 3 last year) and most importantly, defend multiple positions. He and rookie Mikal Bridges could see time as small-ball 4s if head coach Igor Kokoskov is gearing toward small-ball lineups with Deandre Ayton at the 5.
However, even on a one-year deal that mitigates the large salary, the Suns now have more moves to make, especially at the 1. The list of wings on the roster includes Ariza, Bridges, Josh Jackson, T.J. Warren, Troy Daniels, Jared Dudley, Davon Reed and George King. Either quite a few wings are on the move soon, or general manager Ryan McDonough is building an airplane.
Bourguet Grade: B
Hoops Habit Grade: B