Unrestricted free agent Jared Dudley is headed home, agreeing to sign a three-year, $30 million deal with the Phoenix Suns, according to The Vertical's Adrian Wojnarowski. Dudley spent four and a half seasons with the Suns, more than any other team in his career, from 2008 to 2013.
Jared Dudley agrees to 3-year, $30 million deal with the Suns, per report
Dudley is headed back to the team where he spent more years than anywhere else.
Dudley, who is 6’7 and 225 pounds, has morphed himself into a strong bench contributor who, through his defensive instincts and smooth stroke, can play both small forward and power forward and help teams space the floor. He’s hit 40 percent of his three-pointers throughout his career and is considered popular among his peers.
Prior to signing with the Suns, Dudley was outspoken about what he was looking for in free agency. He made it clear he wasn’t interested in taking a discount.
I love my Boston people but that 1 yr 5 mil not goin to get it done lol https://t.co/pSQ0sju741
— Jared Dudley (@JaredDudley619) June 6, 2016
He also joined CLNS Radio's CelticsBeat with Larry H. Russell in June to discuss the possibility of joining the Celtics.
“The reason why it’s so attractive for role players, maybe not the key stars, is the stability. Danny Ainge has been there, we know how he can a program in an instance with trades, he knows how to draft, and they have probably the best upcoming coach in the NBA Brad Stevens when it comes to know personnel,” Dudley said, via Celtics Blog. “He plays all 10 guys, keeps everyone engaged. (Jonas) Jerebko went from not playing to being a huge contributor in the playoffs. That is a huge factor for role players because he gives you an opportunity where not many other teams do.”
But instead, Dudley is headed back to Phoenix, where he had the best three years of his career. He’s a valuable role player whose combination of defense, shooting and veteran savvy should help the Suns regardless what their team looks like next season.
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