The Phoenix Suns have already had a great offseason, but they’re clearly not satisfied. In a surprising move last week, they released Nassir Little along with E.J. Liddell, opening up a final roster spot. There are still some solid free agents left, but the Suns don’t necessarily need to sign one to fill out their roster.
Instead, they can convert one of their two-way players to a standard contract. It’s an enticing option since the Suns excelled on the two-way market this year, landing several quality players. Even if they do end up signing a free agent instead, these two-ways will undoubtedly get a chance to make an impact at some point.
3. Collin Gillespie
Gillespie didn’t play for the Suns in Summer League, but the Villanova alum put himself on the map last year with an unreal G-League season. In eight games with the Denver Nuggets' affiliate, the point guard averaged a near triple double: 21.1/8.9/10.5. He also shot 39% from deep and chipped in 2 steals per game.
It was an all-around impressive season, but one that won’t be enough to land him a standard spot on the Suns to open the year.
In direct contrast to last season, the last thing the Suns need right now is another true point guard on the team, especially an undersized one like the 6’1 Gillespie.
. @nuggets two-way signees Collin Gillespie and Braxton Key posted CAREER-HIGH numbers in @NBAGrandRapids win over the Wolves!
— NBA G League (@nbagleague) December 10, 2023
Gillespie dropped his first professional triple-double, while Key scored a career-high. 👏 pic.twitter.com/nBltWcQutv
His rebounding and scoring numbers likely won’t be translatable due to his height, and there aren’t many lineups the Suns could put out there that would hide him on defense.
However, Gillespie can provide the Suns with valuable insurance if either Tyus Jones or Monté Morris deal with long-term injuries. He'll be able to step in and immediately deliver solid playmaking.