Why the Phoenix Suns Should Sign Lance Stephenson

The Phoenix Suns could use an extra wing player after losing Torrey Craig in free agency. How about Lance Stephenson?

Stephenson plays both the shooting guard and small forward position. This versatility makes him incredibly pluggable—and therefore valuable especially if injuries once again occur during a deep playoff run for the Suns.

Also averaging 26.7 points per game overseas during the 2019-20 season, Stephenson seems to still carry enough scoring burst to play effectively at the NBA level.

“Make ’em dance” Lance also moves the rock incredibly well, which always carries great value. Back during the 2013-14 season, Stephenson averaged 4.6 assists per game. That may have been a long time ago, but court vision like that does not exactly go away with time. The Suns love to share the basketball, so Stephenson strikes as a tailor-made fit under this regard.

Stephenson’s most recent season also saw him shoot a career-high  37.1 percent from the 3-point line. Just like passing, floor spacing always goes heavily appreciated at the NBA level. You can never have too much of it.

While Stephenson will not be a significant rotation piece, he can still come into any game and provide energy. Just imagine The Valley riled up after Stephenson hits a 3-pointer and starts strumming his air guitar. These are the plays that often change an entire game’s course. Stephenson fuels crowds, who then fuel momentum swings.

Additionally, Stephenson fears no player, nor moment. He owns the “Born Ready” nickname for good reason, and we all know about his duels with LeBron James.

Stephenson remains a bit of a menace, and loves getting under his opponent’s skin. Stephenson’s ability to rattle star players could be helpful to the Suns, especially if they indeed run into James and the Los Angeles Lakers during the postseason.

It remains no secret that any season after a deep playoff run feels incredibly taxing, so the Suns need a spark. Perhaps Stephenson can help power them through, or even just give the Phoenix faithful some entertaining moments to enjoy at the very least.