5 Suns who could be forced into retirement after the season
By Tyler Watts
4. Ish Wainwright
The Suns waived Wainwright during the preseason only to bring him back on a two-way contract in early March. He had a two-and-a-half-month stint with the Trail Blazers earlier this season where he appeared in just seven contests. The 6’6 wing started his NBA career with the Suns in 2021 and has played all over the world since graduating from Baylor in 2017.
Wainwright turns 30 years old in September. He is reaching the end of his prime and averages just 3.3 points and 1.8 rebounds in 11.6 minutes per game for his NBA career.
It is a credit to Wainwright that the Suns continue bringing him back. It was Devin Booker who told him the team was re-signing him this time. The two are close, but Wainwright must produce on the floor if he wants to stay in the NBA.
Opportunities have been limited thus far. Wainwright has played just 15 total minutes since rejoining the Suns. The 6’6 wing waits for his name to be called. Expect him to be ready because he knows his career is on the line. This could be his last NBA shot. The Suns could keep him on a two-way contract for the 2024-25 season, but they may prefer to use that spot on a young developing talent. It is now or never for Wainwright.