The Phoenix Suns recently made the surprise decision to bring Haywood Highsmith back to the franchise one week after waiving him, but if you look closer, this will benefit the franchise long-term. This small move could land them in the good graces of many players because it shows commitment.
Suns looking after players will not go unnoticed around the league
They now have 15 players on guaranteed contracts on their roster, which is surprising given that over the last few years, they have typically kept one spot open to add a player during the season.
Duane Rankin of The Arizona Republic (subscription required) has broken this down brilliantly, as he always does, and you can view that here. The main point is that in bringing the 27-year-old back on a one-year, $3 million deal, the Suns actually saved money, as that only represents a $2.6 million cap hit.
Prior to that, he was on a two-year deal in which only $1 million was guaranteed this season (all $3 million now is), but it represented a $3 million cap hit. This may seem like small figures, but when you're again over the first apron (unless Oso Ighodaro decides to become a fringe All-Star), then these are the kind of transactions you make to skirt the line as best you can.
To do right by Highsmith and ensure he is guaranteed a couple million dollars more than he was this time two weeks ago, while also helping their own books, is exactly the kind of micro-transaction in which everybody wins. Even with the Suns still owing Bradley Beal so much money to stay away.
Future free agents are going to look at a move like this and realize they can be looked after if they make The Valley home. Attracting free agents hasn't been a problem in recent years either, as proven by the Kevin Durant trade.
Suns will need to sign future free agents to continue trying to win
As hard as it may be to believe now, there will come a time in the not too distant future when the Suns are again contending and will need to sign certain veterans out right to build out their roster. For those players who are unsure about going to Phoenix, this Highsmith deal is another small notch as to why they should pick the organization.
When you add the Highsmith deal to the front office's willingness to pay Jimmy Butler had they been able to land him when he was with the Miami Heat, as well as bringing back Collin Gillespie and Mark Williams off the back of strong showings, it makes the franchise an attractive prospect.
Not such a small move after all.
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