5. Channing Frye
December 27, 2013; Oakland, CA, USA; Phoenix Suns power forward Channing Frye (8) shoots against Golden State Warriors power forward David Lee (10) during the second quarter at Oracle Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
Stats: 28.2 MPG, 12.3 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 1.0 APG, .455 FG%, .417 3p%
Channing Frye sat out all of last season for the Suns with an enlarged heart. After he was cleared to return, there were questions about how well he would fare after a year off. Frye shook of the rust after only a few games, and has now become a major contributor. His three point stroke is as pretty as ever, and he’s worked to help give the Suns more power inside, an area where they are seriously lacking. He isn’t the biggest guy, but he knows how to use the size he has. Frye’s no star, but he’s been a very valuable start for the Suns this season.
I still think there’s a slight chance the Suns look into a deadline deal involving him. He is still getting paid a pretty penny and is over 30 years old. Regardless, he has come back from a serious medical condition and got his NBA career back on track. His story doesn’t get a lot of attention, but it is a truly inspiring tale of not letting bad fortune hold someone back.
Grade: A-