Suns Aim to Secure Long-Term Deal with Collin Gillespie
As the Phoenix Suns prepare for the upcoming offseason, the focus is on re-signing Collin Gillespie. The young player has exceeded expectations this season, raising concerns about the Suns’ ability to afford a long-term deal. Understanding the parameters surrounding Gillespie’s potential new contract is essential for fans and analysts alike.
Suns’ Options for Collin Gillespie’s Contract
The Suns possess Collin Gillespie’s Early Bird rights, which allow them to negotiate a contract without impacting their salary cap significantly. This provision permits the Suns to offer Gillespie either 175% of his current salary or 105% of the league-average salary, whichever is greater.
Financial Breakdown
This season, Gillespie’s salary was approximately $2.38 million. The calculations for the Suns’ offers are as follows:
- 175% of Current Salary: $4,163,022
- 105% of League-Average Salary: $13,294,268
Given the current league-average salary of $12,661,208, the Suns’ best initial offer would be $13,294,268. This offer could extend for up to four years, featuring annual raises of 8%:
| Year | Salary |
|---|---|
| 1 | $13,294,268 |
| 2 | $14,357,810 |
| 3 | $15,506,434 |
| 4 | $16,746,949 |
Total Contract Value: $59,272,401
Comparison with Competing Offers
Other teams may not technically have Early Bird rights and could offer Gillespie the full non-taxpayer mid-level exception. This option would allow them to provide him a total contract value of $65,250,982 over four years, but with reduced annual raises of 5%:
| Year | Salary |
|---|---|
| 1 | $15,139,000 |
| 2 | $15,895,950 |
| 3 | $16,690,747 |
| 4 | $17,525,285 |
However, the larger offer does come with trade-offs regarding annual raises and the financial restrictions that signing such contracts can impose.
Gillespie’s Intentions and Suns’ Cap Flexibility
Gillespie has expressed a desire to remain in Phoenix long-term, which may influence his decision. Financial considerations aside, the Suns can extend a competitive contract without significantly straining their salary cap. While there are concerns about whether they will go over the tax apron to retain multiple players, management’s willingness to invest in homegrown talent is a positive sign.
In summary, the Suns are well-positioned to retain Collin Gillespie and keep him in the Valley. Fans should remain optimistic, as both Gillespie’s commitment and the Suns’ negotiating power bode well for a favorable outcome.
