Is Mike James A Possibility For The Phoenix Suns?
Current Roster
In taking a quick look at the Suns’ roster for next season, it’s easy to wish for an upgrade behind Eric Bledsoe and Brandon Knight. Most fans are sick of anything involving more than two point guards, but Ronnie Price is an admittedly underwhelming solution to the backup point guard question.
Last season, the 32-year-old Price averaged 5.1 points and 3.8 assists in 22.8 minutes per game for the Los Angeles Lakers (in 43 games and 20 starts). He shot an underwhelming 34.5 percent from the field and an atrocious 28.4 percent from three-point range, making him the least exciting new addition to Phoenix’s roster this summer.
Suffice it to say that most Suns fans are rooting for the underdog Mike James to earn a training camp invite and somehow usurp Price for the backup point guard role.
I just want to thank the @Suns for the opportunity to play summer league. The first team to even take a look at me. I enjoyed every minute
— Mike James (@TheNatural_05) July 21, 2015
However, before Suns fans start looking for their torches and pitchforks to run Price out of town, consider how much the team needed veteran leadership last season. The addition of Tyson Chandler is meant to solve that equation, but one seasoned vet won’t help these young Suns grow up all on his own.
Price may not be able to shoot, but he’ll be a good influence for the younger guards and the Suns will always have one of Bledsoe or Knight on the floor. Price can defend, he takes care of the basketball and he’ll bring poise to the position with good decision-making. He’s not a sexy option at backup point guard like James has the potential to be, but he’s steady.
After he signed a one-year, guaranteed contract, don’t expect the Suns to get rid of Price. If James wants to make the roster, he might have to be willing to make sacrifices.
Next: The Verdict