The Phoenix Suns have fallen short of their preseason expectations, despite a notable victory against the reigning champions, the Denver Nuggets, this Wednesday. Currently occupying the seventh spot in the Western Conference standings, the team’s performance has been underwhelming. However, Grayson Allen’s contribution to the Suns has been remarkable.
Now in his sixth NBA season, Allen was part of a significant three-team trade that brought him to Phoenix during the offseason. The 28-year-old guard has been a consistent starter in all 67 games he’s played for the Suns this season.
Wednesday marked the beginning of the period where Phoenix can offer Allen a contract extension.
The Suns’ sharpshooter is now eligible for a contract extension, potentially worth up to $75 million over four years. This represents a substantial increase from his previous contract with the Milwaukee Bucks, which was a two-year deal worth $18.7 million signed in 2022.
Drafted 21st overall in the 2018 NBA Draft, Allen’s potential extension would place his average annual salary at $18.75 million, ranking 80th for the 2023-24 season according to Spotrac.
Allen has until June 30, just before the start of league free agency, to agree to a contract extension. Given the league’s emphasis on three-point shooting, Allen’s sharpshooting skills make him a coveted asset if he were to enter free agency.
Having his best season yet with Phoenix, Allen has started every game and is averaging career-high statistics in points, rebounds, assists, and minutes played. His accuracy from beyond the arc is particularly notable, leading the league in three-point percentage.
Despite approaching 29 years old, Allen’s trajectory suggests he’s still on the rise, with an increase in playing time each season since his rookie year.
With the potential extension spanning until he turns 32, Allen’s contract could be viewed as a bargain considering the rising salaries in the NBA. Additionally, his on-court performance is shifting attention away from past narratives of him being a controversial player, especially during his college days at Duke.
Throughout his career spanning various teams, Allen has proven himself as a consistent performer, averaging double-digit points and showcasing a reliable three-point shot.