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Phoenix Suns: 10 stars you forgot played for the Suns

By Jono Perilli

PHOENIX, AZ - FEBRUARY 09: Michael Redd #22 of the Phoenix Suns during the NBA game against the Houston Rockets at US Airways Center on February 9, 2012 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Rockets defeated the Suns 96-89. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
PHOENIX, AZ - FEBRUARY 09: Michael Redd #22 of the Phoenix Suns during the NBA game against the Houston Rockets at US Airways Center on February 9, 2012 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Rockets defeated the Suns 96-89. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /
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Mandatory Credit: Stephen Dunn /Allsport
Mandatory Credit: Stephen Dunn /Allsport /

#9: Michael Finley (1995-97)

More known for his career apart of the Dallas Mavericks, Michael Finley cemented himself as one of the best players in franchise history. His career, however, started in Phoenix, back in 1995. Usually, Finley is remembered for his dominance from 1997 to 2005 as part of a Mavericks squad that featured a prosperous Dirk Nowitzki.

Finley then signed a multi-year deal with the San Antonio Spurs. Though it was successful for Finley, who won a ring with the team, he never shared the spotlight alongside his fellow teammates, Tim Duncan, Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili. He eventually would retire with a championship ring in 2010.

But we never mentioned that stint with the Phoenix Suns, even though his debut season was actually quite successful.

Coming off a fantastic season in Wisconsin, Finley was selected with the 21st pick in the 1995 NBA Draft. Immediately, he made a massive impact on the team, and alongside Charles Barkley, he lead the team to a playoff spot. Statistically, it was a fairly important season, in which Finley averaged 15.0 points per game, playing 82 games and starting in 72 of them. It was safe to say that he was the next generation for the Suns, even though he was already 22.

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The 1996-97 season approached, with the Suns looking to extend on their success from the prior year. Finley’s first 27 games were more or less a decrease statistically, in which he only averaged 13.0 points per game. At that time, the Suns were in need of a saving grace, especially since they had started with an 8-19 record. That saving grace came when Finley was traded to the Dallas Mavericks.

The trade involved the Suns giving Sam Cassell, A.C. Green, Finley and a 1998 second-round pick to the Mavericks for Tony Dumas, Jason Kidd and Loren Meyer.

Concluding, the Michael Finley era in Phoenix was short but sweet. It was short enough for fans to forget. Though it certainly wasn’t a bad period for Finley, it’s always forgotten when looking back at his career.

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