The trio of stars on the Suns—Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal—are set to rake in over $150 million individually for the upcoming season. Currently, Phoenix has committed more than $178 million in guaranteed contracts to six players, a figure that could climb above $190 million if four more seasoned players opt to pick up their player options.
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Despite this hefty payroll, Suns owner Mat Ishbia expressed the team’s commitment to re-signing key unrestricted free agents Grayson Allen and Royce O’Neale in the summer. Ishbia emphasized the team’s aspiration to contend for a championship, stressing the importance of retaining players with Bird rights, even if it means navigating the luxury tax. He highlighted the significant role both Allen and O’Neale have played within the team and expressed the desire to maintain the core roster for championship contention.
With a team salary surpassing the second luxury tax apron this season, the Suns face limitations in future flexibility. However, Ishbia’s remarks indicate a willingness to invest in the team’s success rather than penny-pinching. Retaining Allen and O’Neale becomes crucial for the Suns, as letting them go would leave the team with minimal options for replacements within the constraints of the salary cap.
Both Allen and O’Neale are eligible for contract extensions before hitting free agency, with Allen potentially looking at a lucrative offer from the Suns based on his recent performance. Allen’s sharpshooting and O’Neale’s defensive contributions have been significant for the Suns, further underlining the importance of retaining them for the team’s championship ambitions.