The NBA Finals might be in full swing - but for those who suited up for the Phoenix Suns in 2023-24 - the summer started weeks ago. Which is why it should come as no surprise to see some of their players getting out there and participating in offseason workouts with teammates and players from rival teams alike.
Bol Bol is no exception, and in an Instagram post shared by Chet Holmgren recently, the two appeared to be working out together in an undisclosed location. This looks like a great move for Bol, who could certainly do with picking up some offensive moves from the Oklahoma City Thunder standout.
It was the presence of a third player in the picture however, that may just have confirmed that Bol will be back in The Valley next season.
Bol is an unrestricted free agent this summer, although it is unclear what kind of interest he would generate around the league. He had a better statistical season in 2022-23 when he was given more freedom to play and make mistakes by the Orlando Magic, while last year he did a much better job of fitting in with a playoff group.
That took some time - and really winning over a head coach like Frank Vogel to earn some minutes was impressive - but the limitations of Bol's game are still a known quantity. He's dreadful defensively, and having him hang around the perimeter is about the best way to survive having him on that end of the court.
Bol Bol in the game to start the second quarter for the #Suns and fans go crazy pic.twitter.com/Y4GZMyWplY
— Burn City Suns Talk 🎙️ (@BurnCitySuns) April 27, 2024
That brings with it its own problems though, as opponents will always hunt Bol and switch their star players onto him. Despite this, it was unclear if Bol would head back to Phoenix, as all they can offer him is the veteran's minimum. If even one other franchise goes above that, Bol would surely take more money and job security by way of a longer contract and head elsewhere.
Enter Kevin Durant, the aforementioned third player in the picture with Bol and Holmgren. Right away many speculated that Holmgren could be trying to convince Durant to head back to Oklahoma City, but that doesn't seem likely right now. Yes Durant is unpredictable with these things - and the Thunder have plenty of stuff to trade - but Suns' owner Mat Ishbia moved it all to get Durant.
Which means it is more likely that Bol is going to rejoin Durant with the Suns next season. Assistant coach David Fizdale appeared to have a great relationship with the player, while Durant always had complimentary things to say about his teammate as well. Bol has never felt love and encouragement from a team and their fanbase like this before, and it is clear he looks up to Durant as well.
So if the choice was to play for the minimum elsewhere - which is still likely the going rate for his services - and taking the same deal to play with Durant and under Fizdale again, it makes complete sense for Bol to come back. Spending a summer learning from an all-time great in Durant and future All-Star in Holmgren just shows how serious he is about getting better, which is brilliant to see.