The Phoenix Suns are looking to bolster their already-solid backcourt rotation with the impending signing of Elfrid Payton, per NBA insider Keith Smith.
The Phoenix Suns had great success getting Cameron Payne back on track. Per a source, the Suns are hoping to run that back by signing Elfrid Payton to a one-year, veteran minimum contract.
The Suns recently secured Chris Paul's services with a four-year deal amounting to $120 million. They also agreed to a $19 million deal for three years with backup point guard Cameron Payne.
Elfrid Payton spent last season with the New York Knicks. The 10th overall pick in the 2014 NBA Draft averaged 10.1 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 3.2 assists in 63 games under head coach Tom Thibodeau.
Once finalized, this would be Payton's second stint for the Suns. In the 2017-18 campaign, the veteran point guard played 19 games for Phoenix, averaging 11.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 6.2 assists per game.
When he's at his best, Payton has the potential to drop triple-doubles in some nights. Though those days may already be part of history, the 6-foot-3 guard is still capable of providing a steady backcourt presence in limited minutes.
The Suns' guard depth already seems set with Paul, Payne, Devin Booker, and, in some instances, Mikal Bridges. But after a deep postseason run that saw CP3 get pushed near his physical limit, the Suns may be better off with another player who can set things up as Paul recuperates to begin the 2021-22 season.
At only 27 years of age, Payton may very well make the most of his looming opportunity with the Suns and boost his value in return.
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