2019 NBA free agency tracker: Grades for every deal so far

Ricky Rubio: 3 years, $51 million (Phoenix Suns)

This is not the D’Angelo Russell signing Phoenix Suns fans were pining for, but even if it feels like a slight overpay for a less glamorous target, general manager James Jones still did well to finally address the team’s glaring hole at the 1 with a legitimate NBA point guard who’s still only 28 years old.

After the Suns spent most of their season rotating Isaiah Canaan, De’Anthony Melton, Elie Okobo and even Devin Booker at the point, a combo guard like Tyler Johnson felt like a breath of fresh air. Now Phoenix continues the upward climb to respectability with another improvement at point guard, snagging a dazzling passer and smart floor general who will help in a number of areas.

He won’t create space for Booker in the backcourt, nor is he a prolific spot-up shooter who can capitalize on catch-and-shoot looks when Book has the ball in his hands. However, he’s a seasoned vet with experience on playoff teams. He will create easier looks for Booker and especially for Deandre Ayton in the pick-and-roll (6.1 assists per game last year), and he defends well enough to help cover up for some of Book’s flaws on that end.

Rubio’s lack of a 3-point shot is a detriment and $17 million a year is still an overpay, but the Suns had to do it to snag a competent point guard for once. He won’t help Phoenix move up the standings by himself, but if Booker and Ayton continue on their path to stardom, and if Mikal Bridges takes the next step as a 3-point threat, Rubio will be an excellent complementary piece on both ends of the floor.

Grade: B