4 Ideal Buyout Candidates for the Phoenix Suns to Go After
By Karan Jain
Phoenix Suns Buyout Candidate: Goran Dragic
Former Suns point guard Goran Dragic remains one of the most talked-about buyout candidates this season. The Slovenian, who was traded by the Miami Heat in the offseason, barely played for the Toronto Raptors before the San Antonio Spurs acquired him at the deadline. The Spurs are expected to waive Dragic, with various contenders interested in his services.
If Dragic resembles at least 80 percent of the player he was for Miami last year, than he deserves consideration for a roster spot.
Although his best days as a basketball player certainly lie in the past by now, Dragic worked as a reliable shot-creator for the Heat last year even with their offense struggling amidst a wave of injuries. As a playmaker, the Dragon ranked in the 89th percentile for assist points and 93rd percentile for box creation.
Beside his effectiveness as a facilitator, Dragic also embodied a driving machine with Miami last season, averaging 13.6 drives per 75 possessions—which ranked in the 92nd percentile.
If he returns to form, the Suns might want to think about offering him Elfrid Payton’s minutes. Dragic’s experience, leadership, and playoff pedigree promise to also benefit the Suns on and off the court.