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The Phoenix Suns’ decision to re-sign Josh Okogie on a two-year, $16 million deal raised eyebrows from a payroll perspective, despite his modest on-court impact. Shams Charania and Bobby Marks highlighted the significance: Okogie’s contract includes a non-guaranteed second season, providing front-office flexibility. This deal pushes the Suns’ payroll to an NBA-first $400 million, including $198 million in projected tax.
Josh Okogie’s on-court contributions might seem insignificant when considering his averages of 4.6 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.1 assists in the last season. However, his re-signing points to Phoenix’s larger financial gamble. Overshadowed by superstars Kevin Durant and Devin Booker, Okogie and the supporting cast must elevate their game. Last season’s playoff sweep by the Minnesota Timberwolves underscored this necessity, as Durant and Booker couldn’t carry the team alone.
With a loaded Western Conference featuring Denver Nuggets, Dallas Mavericks, Timberwolves, and Los Angeles Lakers, the Suns face immense pressure. Durant and Booker are critical, but without substantial contributions from players like Okogie, another early playoff exit could render their record payroll an expensive punchline. The stakes have never been higher for Phoenix.
