The Phoenix Suns didn’t acquire Brandon Knight by accident. After trading away two-thirds of their fast-paced backcourt, the team was in need of another high energy guard to maintain coach Jeff Hornacek’s playing style to have a chance at the playoffs, and Knight was the man for the job.
To lead the Suns into the postseason, Knight will need to keep up the production he had with the Milwaukee Bucks. So far, he has had no problems adjusting to the uptempo Phoenix system, scoring in double figures in seven of his first eight games with his new team.
With Knight getting more comfortable in Phoenix the team now faces the decision of whether to sign the restricted guard in free agency. With premium point guards in high demand Knight will garner a max contract, so resigning him will come at with a hefty price tag.
When Knight spoke to Sheridan Hoops about returning to Phoenix he admitted the contract talk shouldn’t get in the way of his or the team’s play.
“We’ll see this offseason where things go. I’m loving the way things we are doing right now. Guys are fighting hard. As far as the Suns commitment to me, I’ve got to play it out and I want to play as hard as I can.”
This season has been a breakout year for Knight. The fifth-year guard out of Kentucky was widely considered an Eastern Conference All-Star snub by many basketball analysts and players. One of which included Miami Heat guard Dwyane Wade, who lobbied for Knight to take his place on the roster.
“If I had a say, Brandon Knight. I think he’s done a great job of leading that team a lot of people didn’t give a chance, to being a very good team that’s respected.”
Of course, less than a week after the All-Star festivities Knight was traded to Phoenix, and now he has a chance to team with Eric Bledsoe and lead the rejuvenated Suns into the playoffs.
Brandon Knight is a potential cornerstone to any franchise. Phoenix love the style of play Knight brings to the team, and it will come as no surprise if he is a Sun next season.