Patience this summer is key to future Suns championships

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PHOENIX, AZ – DECEMBER 31: JJ Redick #17 of the Philadelphia 76ers handles the ball against Tyler Ulis #8 of the Phoenix Suns on December 31, 2017 at Talking Stick Resort Arena in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Barry Gossage/NBAE via Getty Images) /

Avoid long-term contracts

There’s good reason to hold off on spending big in free agency. With the team expected to make a huge jump next season, it could be a top destination for free agents either next offseason or the following summer.

But the only way to bring in big free agents is to have plenty of available cap space. Next summer, Tyson Chandler will be off the books. The next summer, Brandon Knight‘s contract will be up. Cap space will be abundant.

Sure, Devin Booker will get paid before next offseason. T.J. Warren still has a decent salary. And the team will have to decide if they want to keep Chriss and Bender before 2020. But Josh Jackson and Deandre Ayton will still be on rookie deals the next two summers, giving the Phoenix Suns a window to spend big on a free agent without compromising their core.

But it’s only possible if they’re patient and prudent in free agency this offseason.

Wings like Marcus Smart and J.J. Redick are both free agents, and they’d be great pieces to help with young players’ developments. But they’re both expected to go for well over $10 million, giving the Suns a lot to think about. Depending on when they decide they’re ready to make a move, they shouldn’t give either player a deal longer than two years. Preferably, they wouldn’t give out more than a one year deal.

Next: Roundable: Our selections for each one of the Phoenix Suns draft picks

There are lots of players that can come in and help right away in free agency. But if the Phoenix Suns aren’t patient, they may cost themselves an opportunity at an elite talent down the line.

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