2014 Suns Free Agency

[JCSunsfan]

I do not see how Marvin Williams is better than ANYONE on our present roster. I do not see the point unless we are planning on moving players in a trade or something. Even then it would be an unremarkable signing.

 

[Rab]

There's a lot of truth to that article. From a pure basketball standpoint, it would seem to be a great situation for LeBron. It's hard to find many cons outside of whether he wants to move to Phoenix, or keep in the east where the path is easier.

All the attention the Suns are getting from the LeBron sweepstakes is good for the franchise, regardless of the outcome. It's amazing how far this team has come since the misery of the 12-13 season.

I would love to see it happen, but I don't see it happening, unfortunately. But, it's hard to be sad about losing a player you never had anyway.

We'll move on and I'm confident we'll continue down the right path. To this point it does not seem like the FO is willing to spend just to spend, or is willing to overspend.



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[Mainstreet]

I still do not think Lebron is leaving the Heat... only trying to motivate them. However, I do wonder if Wade and Bosh are up for the salary cuts. The latter gives me pause that maybe something changes with the trio.

 

[TJ]

There's a lot of truth to that article. From a pure basketball standpoint, it would seem to be a great situation for LeBron. It's hard to find many cons outside of whether he wants to move to Phoenix, or keep in the east where the path is easier.

All the attention the Suns are getting from the LeBron sweepstakes is good for the franchise, regardless of the outcome. It's amazing how far this team has come since the misery of the 12-13 season.

I would love to see it happen, but I don't see it happening, unfortunately. But, it's hard to be sad about losing a player you never had anyway.

We'll move on and I'm confident we'll continue down the right path. To this point it does not seem like the FO is willing to spend just to spend, or is willing to overspend.



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From purely a basketball standpoint, him coming to PHX makes the most sense, particularly if he can convince Bosh or Anthony to join him (Bosh looks like the most realistic option). It simply won't happen because...well...we're the Suns and don't have that kind of luck, so life would just be easier if he picked a team so I can move on.

Dreaming is fun and free.

 

[BC867]

The article reflects what the teams (management) have done to attract LeBron James, the free agent.

'Not the same as James and Bosh conspiring to join Wade in Miami to build a dynasty.

The Suns front office has prepared well. Now it is up to James and Bosh to react to what management has set up for them.

If they decide to accept the Suns recruiting campaign for them, I am now all for it.

LBJ gets his 3rd championship and we get our first. And Jerry Colangelo will have a little more peace of mind.

 

[CardsFan88]

It's heating up again.... (no pun intended)


More tweets from Woj

Adrian Wojnarowski @WojYahooNBA · 4m

Once Pat Riley has chance to lay out his progress in free agency to James soon, there could be better clarity on James' next step.

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Adrian Wojnarowski @WojYahooNBA · 6m

Chris Bosh still hasn't taken step of talking directly with Rockets, sources tell Yahoo Sports. If he does, things could change fast here.

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Adrian Wojnarowski @WojYahooNBA · 8m

Around Bosh/Wade, there's uneasiness about James' intent; uncertainty. No one's sure -- yet. Heat aren't done, but empire's teetering.

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Adrian Wojnarowski @WojYahooNBA · 11m

Cavaliers want to unload Jarrett Jack's $6M annual deal to clear space, without touching Anderson Varejao -- a LeBron James favorite.

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Adrian Wojnarowski @WojYahooNBA · 25m

Longer James has gone w/ minimal contact, more unsettled Bosh/Wade have become on Heat future. "They're reading the tea leafs," source says.

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Adrian Wojnarowski @WojYahooNBA · 56m

In pursuit of max slot for LeBron James, Cavs searching for team to take Nets' Marcus Thornton in deal to unload Jarrett Jack, sources say.

Some more tweets from Broussard

Chris Broussard @Chris_Broussard · 35m

These convos aren't sourced enough 4 me to report as fact. But I've heard enough to believe "the wind is blowing" LJ back home. We'll see...

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Chris Broussard @Chris_Broussard · 38m

I'm not saying LJ to Cavs is done deal or I know 4 a fact; just my gut feeling based on many conversations I've had around this story...

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Chris Broussard @Chris_Broussard · 1h

Cleveland has replaced Miami as my frontrunner to land LeBron James...

Tweets from Stein

Marc Stein @ESPNSteinLine · 26s

RT @WindhorstESPN: LeBron James planning face-to- face meeting with Pat Riley in next few days, sources tell ESPN. USA Today first reported

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Marc Stein @ESPNSteinLine · 19m

No one knows -- yet -- if LeBron is serious about leaving Miami. But Rockets have moved quickly to front of the Bosh line if Bron relocates

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Marc Stein @ESPNSteinLine · 20m

None of the so-called Heatles has been more vocal about re-signing than Chris Bosh. But that, of course, was to keep playing WITH LeBron

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Marc Stein @ESPNSteinLine · 21m

Link to ESPN latest on Rockets' ramped-up pursuit of Chris Bosh written w/ @ramonashelburne - http://es.pn/1ziS12z pic.twitter.com/T0FiOzGLvE
Embedded image permalink
View more photos and videos

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Marc Stein @ESPNSteinLine · 28m

This much clear on Day 6 of NBA Free Agency: Cavs (with LeBron) and Rockets (with Bosh) aren't listening to those who say they have no shot

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Marc Stein @ESPNSteinLine · 36m

Rockets understand that realistic shot at Bosh depends on LeBron leaving Heat. But they clearly aren't waiting to see what LeBron decides

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Marc Stein @ESPNSteinLine · 38m

Story co-scribed w/ @ramonashelburne details how Rockets have intensified their pursuit of Bosh even though Melo hasn't told them no yet

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Marc Stein @ESPNSteinLine · 39m

ESPN sources say Rockets are "heavily engaged" with Chris Bosh in attempt to get Bosh to leave Heat in free agency. Story hits online soon

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Well it's clear the national media is finally coming around that the big three look likely for a breakup. Slowly but surely, the odds have been tipping from them.

But is Lebron leaning to Cavs? Or are they finally just coming around that him leaving is a real possibility, and bordering on likely and are just trying to make sense of the Cavs potential moves? Heat have some life but should have a defibrillator nearby.

I like our chances despite what they say.

 

[hsandhu]

I like the fact not much is leaking from suns camp, i would guess sarver and crew were in miami this weekend, but wasn't leaked all over like cleveland visit tonight.

 

[FutureSuperstar]

I agree w/ what was said earlier about Lebron's decision ... that it would happen quick and he would just say "this is where I want to go", etc.

Because of that, I think all of this "noise" that he is leaning toward the Cavs is just BS ... I don't think Lebron would leak what he was thinking AT ALL - until he makes his decision. Most likely, the only people that know what Lebron's thinking are his family, probably agent, and/or close friends - I doubt those people are leaking much of anything to the media ...

The fact that Cleveland is looking for ways to create a MAX contract offer is meaningless ... Other than it shows they believe they have at least a "chance" at Lebron, which we already know. It doesn't mean it is happening - Just that there's a chance it does, so CLE better prepare if it does ...

 

[Covert Rain]

I still do not think Lebron is leaving the Heat... only trying to motivate them. However, I do wonder if Wade and Bosh are up for the salary cuts. The latter gives me pause that maybe something changes with the trio.

My take as well. In fact, in the article above even the Heat pointed out they are not worried until He meets with teams in person. That was my take from day one because I don't recall a major free agent signing without personally visiting the team.

That pointed to me as a player.....once again using the Suns as leverage. I still think that from a basketball perspective we still make the most sense and what little hope I have is resting on that.

Please basketball Gods!


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[FutureSuperstar]

So it seems like it really is down to the Suns vs. Cavs if he leaves Miami ... Just imagine if the Cavs retained the 9th pick and didn't get Wiggins - I don't think many people here thought that stroke of luck could have led to the Suns missing out on Lebron, but that's a huge chip that may make the Cavs more appealing that the Suns (when combined w/ playing in the EAST & being Lebron's former team ... 2 more factors that give the Cavs an inherit edge that PHX has no control over)

 

[KloD]

I agree w/ what was said earlier about Lebron's decision ... that it would happen quick and he would just say "this is where I want to go", etc.

Because of that, I think all of this "noise" that he is leaning toward the Cavs is just BS ... I don't think Lebron would leak what he was thinking AT ALL - until he makes his decision. Most likely, the only people that know what Lebron's thinking are his family, probably agent, and/or close friends - I doubt those people are leaking much of anything to the media ...

The fact that Cleveland is looking for ways to create a MAX contract offer is meaningless ... Other than it shows they believe they have at least a "chance" at Lebron, which we already know. It doesn't mean it is happening - Just that there's a chance it does, so CLE better prepare if it does ...

Except that if James told Cleveland he wants to go back and wants a max contract, it's not like they have to already have it ready. He can wait to sign it once they've rid themselves of whoever to make it happen. Why trade and possibly take a lose since they get nothing back. They may even have to throw in a 1st round pick to make it happen. It makes no sense for them to give up assets unless they already know or at least heavily suspect they will need that space.

I'm feeling there's a very good chance that James will leave Miami and that he will go back to Cleveland. Yes, the Suns have a better roster and more to offer. Yes, basketball wise the Suns are the better choice, and yes, Cleveland has done nothing to deserve him and in fact one could make a very valid argument that they do not deserve him, but, we're competing with his home. It's that simple. I think if he leaves Miami that he will do so to go back to his home, not off to the West. I will never understand why the luck has fallen on the Cavs with these #1 picks, I will never agree with his going back there, but I think it's going to happen by weeks end and the Suns will move on. I just hope we spend light and don't get into any long deals outside of maybe Bledsoe and Tucker. Keep trying to work on a Love trade and if empty-handed after trade deadline, than try again next summer for the best available as long as they make sense.

I hope I'm pleasantly surprised this week, but we knew not to get our hopes up and that chances we're slim if that. Maybe Wiggins will become the star many project and maybe one day we can snatch him from Cleveland.

 

[Mainstreet]

My take as well. In fact, in the article above even the Heat pointed out they are not worried until He meets with teams in person. That was my take from day one because I don't recall a major free agent signing without personally visiting the team.

That pointed to me as a player.....once again using the Suns as leverage. I still think that from a basketball perspective we still make the most sense and what little hope I have is resting on that.

Please basketball Gods!


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I think the Suns will need to create their own luck. I have huge faith in McDonough but I'm not sure the Suns were ever seriously considered by Lebron. I hope I am wrong being a Suns fan. However, I think the Suns can out maneuver most teams given a level playing field. The trouble is, the playing field was already slanted when free agency started.

 

[PhxGametime]

I'm guessing LeBron goes back home, keeping them in his top 3 and joining another Team, would really upset cavs fans that much more. Though I think the cavs need to upgrade Roster to 'compete'.

I don't understand the thinking that Suns win, even if LeBron doesn't join Team either - get all fans hopes up and all...

 

[FutureSuperstar]

Except that if James told Cleveland he wants to go back and wants a max contract, it's not like they have to already have it ready. He can wait to sign it once they've rid themselves of whoever to make it happen. Why trade and possibly take a lose since they get nothing back. They may even have to throw in a 1st round pick to make it happen. It makes no sense for them to give up assets unless they already know or at least heavily suspect they will need that space.

I'm feeling there's a very good chance that James will leave Miami and that he will go back to Cleveland. Yes, the Suns have a better roster and more to offer. Yes, basketball wise the Suns are the better choice, and yes, Cleveland has done nothing to deserve him and in fact one could make a very valid argument that they do not deserve him, but, we're competing with his home. It's that simple. I think if he leaves Miami that he will do so to go back to his home, not off to the West. I will never understand why the luck has fallen on the Cavs with these #1 picks, I will never agree with his going back there, but I think it's going to happen by weeks end and the Suns will move on. I just hope we spend light and don't get into any long deals outside of maybe Bledsoe and Tucker. Keep trying to work on a Love trade and if empty-handed after trade deadline, than try again next summer for the best available as long as they make sense.

I hope I'm pleasantly surprised this week, but we knew not to get our hopes up and that chances we're slim if that. Maybe Wiggins will become the star many project and maybe one day we can snatch him from Cleveland.

I agree w/ your 1st paragraph. The rumors are just that the Cavs are exploring ways to free up cap space, not actually doing it .... Before Lebron signs, you definitely explore ways to open up cap space (So in that respect, the report means nothing ... If they actually complete a deal, then that would mean Lebron is probably coming) - I agree you don't actually do a deal before-hand though

 

[Mainstreet]

My final thoughts this evening seem clear although I may be just tired.

There are only two teams in play if Lebron wants to maintain his legacy. Those teams are, staying on in Miami were he has won two Championships and returning them to the top. Or go back to Cleveland, where he never won a Championship and win Championships there. Also it seems obvious Lebron follows the talent. If the Heat cannot put together enough talent around him, he goes back to Cleveland where there is the talent. Also he shakes off the label he couldn't carry Cleveland to a Championship.

 

[Mainstreet]

Except that if James told Cleveland he wants to go back and wants a max contract, it's not like they have to already have it ready. He can wait to sign it once they've rid themselves of whoever to make it happen. Why trade and possibly take a lose since they get nothing back. They may even have to throw in a 1st round pick to make it happen. It makes no sense for them to give up assets unless they already know or at least heavily suspect they will need that space.

I'm feeling there's a very good chance that James will leave Miami and that he will go back to Cleveland. Yes, the Suns have a better roster and more to offer. Yes, basketball wise the Suns are the better choice, and yes, Cleveland has done nothing to deserve him and in fact one could make a very valid argument that they do not deserve him, but, we're competing with his home. It's that simple. I think if he leaves Miami that he will do so to go back to his home, not off to the West. I will never understand why the luck has fallen on the Cavs with these #1 picks, I will never agree with his going back there, but I think it's going to happen by weeks end and the Suns will move on. I just hope we spend light and don't get into any long deals outside of maybe Bledsoe and Tucker. Keep trying to work on a Love trade and if empty-handed after trade deadline, than try again next summer for the best available as long as they make sense.

I hope I'm pleasantly surprised this week, but we knew not to get our hopes up and that chances we're slim if that. Maybe Wiggins will become the star many project and maybe one day we can snatch him from Cleveland.

I agree with what you have to say. I always thought Lebron would stay in Miami until the legacy factor entered my mind thanks to your post.

 

[Folster]

Does anybody think that Lebron and his agent could implore the Cavs to trade for Bledsoe as a condition of him signing with the Cavs? As it stands now, the Cavs need to clear space to sign Lebron to a max contract. Say, we have cap space. I'll take Jarret Jack's contract and Wiggins for Bledsoe so they can sign James.

 

[Superbone]

Does anybody think that Lebron and his agent could implore the Cavs to trade for Bledsoe as a condition of him signing with the Cavs? As it stands now, the Cavs need to clear space to sign Lebron to a max contract. Say, we have cap space. I'll take Jarret Jack's contract and Wiggins for Bledsoe so they can sign James.

So kind of you. Me too!

 

[hsandhu]

So it seems like it really is down to the Suns vs. Cavs if he leaves Miami ... Just imagine if the Cavs retained the 9th pick and didn't get Wiggins - I don't think many people here thought that stroke of luck could have led to the Suns missing out on Lebron, but that's a huge chip that may make the Cavs more appealing that the Suns (when combined w/ playing in the EAST & being Lebron's former team ... 2 more factors that give the Cavs an inherit edge that PHX has no control over)

If they had 8th pick, they still had enough assets to trade for love, like they do now. So probably would have been strong chance to get james.

Also luck did fall in positive way, if heat beat spurs, none of this is happening.

 

[slinslin]

The Cavs would really be down to just Irving, James and Love with not other supporting cast to make it happen.

They need to move 10M$ in salaries to make room for James and then move another 15M$ for Love.

 

[slinslin]

Without the #1 pick it would be very hard for the Cavs to trade for Love.

Waiters is a headcase, Bennett a super bust, Tristan Thompson is worse than Markieff, Jack is a bad contract and Varejao over 30 and always injured.

I don't think the Cavs are title contenders with Irving, Love and Lebron and scraps. No depth, little defense and veteran free agents won't line up to play with Lebron in Cleveland as much as they did in Miami.

 

[KloD]

Without the #1 pick it would be very hard for the Cavs to trade for Love.

Waiters is a headcase, Bennett a super bust, Tristan Thompson is worse than Markieff, Jack is a bad contract and Varejao over 30 and always injured.

I don't think the Cavs are title contenders with Irving, Love and Lebron and scraps. No depth, little defense and veteran free agents won't line up to play with Lebron in Cleveland as much as they did in Miami.

I don't think you need to convince anyone here. I think that if Lebron goes back to Cleveland, it's not for basketball reasons. Yes, he wants to win. But, going back to Cleveland would not be the best way to accomplish that and he knows that. He goes back it's because he and his family want to go home. I think most of us have known others who left where they're from for "greener pastures", but ended up returning because they were happier where they were from. It happens, and the draw is strong for some. Not me, but Legron is no me.

 

[CardsFan88]

Well this is interesting, in more ways then one

http://www.nj.com/knicks/index.ssf/...pcake_store_owner_says_it_is_a_done_deal.html

Of course it's a cupcake store owner who might have the inside track... but a little blurb lower in the page is probably more relevant (and of course probably still means little).

"Caroline's Cupcakes", a small bakery in Ohio, recently reported -- yes, reported -- that sources close to James say the free agent returning to Cleveland is a "done deal."

But then the blurb lower in the article which shows ESPN and others forgot to add someone important to their twitter.

“. @LullOnSports:Cavs owner Dan Gilbert is currently en route to south Florida.” I am? Sorry folks but enjoying weather in my backyard today
— Dan Gilbert (@cavsdan) July 6, 2014

 

[sunsfan88]

The Marvin Williams that did squat for Atlanta all those years? Why on earth would the Suns want him. He's not even a PF... his teammate Jeremy Evans, who is listed as SF, rebounds much better and blocks shots at three times the rate. Heck, I'd much rather have Evans than Hayward. He's quietly efficient and is more athletic - he'd fit right in with the Suns. Better defender than Hayward, too, as indicated by the tracking stats.

I really can't understand why the Suns are interested in these PF's who can't rebound significantly better that Frye. Might as well keep Channing... I don't mind him on the team as a role player.

The Suns took an oath a long time ago after the Barkley era to never have a good rebounding starting caliber PF on the team ever again.

 

[AzStevenCal]

The Suns took an oath a long time ago after the Barkley era to never have a good rebounding starting caliber PF on the team ever again.

Individual rebounding numbers = overrated. We were right in the middle of the pack for rebounds. The list of 14 teams that boarded better than us includes the Pistons, Cavs, TWolves, Kings, 76ers and Hornets. Below us on that list are Memphis, Toronto, Washington, San Antonio, Dallas and Miami to name a few. Some of that is due to pace but it's just not the focal point you make it out to be. I'll take improvement wherever we can get it but I wouldn't pass on a good player simply because of 1 or 2 rebounds.

Steve