The tension builds as the NBA trade deadline inches closer.
Will he stay or will he go?
The “he” of course, is Amare Stoudemire. The “will he” seems more of a matter of when than if.
Two weeks ago it seemed a guarantee Stoudemire would be gone before the February 18 deadline. Now, a five-game winning streak and Stoudemire’s talk of not opting out of his contract have muddled affairs.
No longer a sure “expiring contract,” teams looking to acquire Stoudemire must be sure they want him next season. That includes his penchant for subpar rebounding (picked up during the Suns’ streak), his lack of focus on defense (likewise improved), and the prospect of paying the max in order to keep him.
Despite the Suns’ recent success, however, the Suns continue to hold active discussions about dealing their All-Star forward. Apparently the Suns’ brass aren’t swayed from thinking Stoudemire is not the man to take them to the promised land.
The Arizona Republic reported today talks with Philadelphia remain ongoing. Any deal with the Sixers would land athletic swingman Andre Iguodala with Phoenix, where he could flourish playing alongside Steve Nash. A new scenario had Stoudemire going to Detroit in a three-way trade involving Philadelphia, with the Sixers getting guard Ben Gordon.
If such is the case, what then, is the Suns’ direction for the future?
Steve Nash appears to be safe from relocation, but with no Stoudemire, he may be forced to take on a mentor-like role as the Suns develop what young talent they have.
Once-criticized draft picks Robin Lopez and Goran Dragic have earned vital roles in the Suns’ rotation this season. Inquiries regarding either second-year player have reportedly been turned down, indicating Phoenix considers them equally vital to the future of the franchise.
Last week word leaked out the Suns were attempting to package guard Jason Richardson with Stoudemire in a deal with the Sixers, hoping to land Iguodala, defensive force Sam Dalembert and a third player. Phoenix was rebuffed; Philadelphia prefers guard Leandro Barbosa’s contract to that of Richardson.
Surprisingly, Phoenix did not bite on the deal, despite Barbosa’s injury-riddled season. The Brazilian super-sub is having his worst season since the 2004-05 season, averaging just over 10 points-per-game.
However, keeping Barbosa may make sense if Phoenix does in fact plan to build around a youthful core. A foundation of Barbosa (27), Dragic (23), Lopez (21), three-point marksman Channing Frye (26), sixth man Jared Dudley (24) and rookie Earl Clark (22) may be more appealing to Phoenix than a couple years of quasi-contention with an inconsistent Stoudemire, and veterans Nash, Richardson and Grant Hill.
The Suns’ youth as presently constituted does lack star power, which is what the Suns hope to acquire if/when they deal Stoudemire. Iguodala (26) could address that.
The one thing that does appear certain: Stoudemire’s recently increased efforts apparently came too late to guarantee his stay in Phoenix.
Paul Coro of the Arizona Republic reports a three-way trade between Detroit, Philly and Phoenix has at least been talked about. Keaton (a.k.a. the Trade Talker) doesn’t like the frontcourt return for Phoenix, while Matt marvels at trades happening (or not happening) because of finances rather than basketball. As for Stoudemire himself, if you have a better trade in mind for Phoenix, or other questions/comments, please e-mail them to sevenminutesorless @fanster.com. Those will be addressed on Saturday’s show.
S.M.O.L. is a podcast for the fans, by the fans, in seven minutes or Less. Saturday features a full 24-minute shot-clock for the show, with a more in-depth look at the Suns, including responses to e-mail questions/comments from fans and listeners. If your comment/question is good, you could be asked to make an appearance on the show.
There’s no denying that Steve Nash is the “engine” that makes the Phoenix Suns run. It is also tough to argue that when Nash is happy, that “engine” runs at full horsepower.
While the Suns are in the midst of a five-game win streak in which Nash averaged 17.6 points and 11.8 assists, trade speculation and rumors have surrounded Amare Stoudemire and Jason Richardson.
That fact is not lost on the Suns’ star point guard.
“We’ve shown that we’re a good team,” Nash told KTAR after practice Sunday. “I think we’ve shown glimpses we can be a really good team, and it would be nice to continue to work at it together.”
Nash seems more than content to stand pat and keep Amare and Richardson with the NBA trade deadline looming. Does that mean Steve Kerr and the Phoenix front office will agree?
When the Suns decided to conduct the “Terry Porter Experiment”, they didn’t seem to take Nash’s comfort level into consideration. Under the new head coach Nash became unhappy with the team and it’s style of play. As he grew more uncomfortable, the Suns’ production worsened.
Steve Kerr and the front office quickly realized their mistake and returned the team to a system that was more agreeable to Nash.
Can Kerr risk dealing Amare Stoudemire if it means upsetting their two-time league MVP and possibly having a repeat of last season?
When Nash signed his two-year contract extension before the season, he talked about the importance of playing with teammates he “really love[s] and enjoy[s]“. He made it clear that liking the group of players around him, enjoying the game and the group’s chemistry were paramount for him.
If you take his post practice comments from Sunday at face value, it sounds like Nash enjoys the current talent on the Suns roster. It’s easy to assume that he also feels the team has great chemistry and his stats prove that he’s enjoying the game.
To Nash’s credit, he also told reporters that the didn’t feel the Suns had to ask his opinion or for permission to make a deal.
“You know, I don’t think they need to,” Nash said. “I think it’s up to them. If they want to that’s fine. If they don’t want to that’s also fine.”
With just two seasons remaining in the Nash era, keeping the point guard happy and productive gives the Suns the best chance to have even marginal success. One just has to wonder if that’s enough reason to not deal Stoudemire and/or Jason Richardson for the right price?
Would the Suns be better served by not making a trade to keep Steve Nash happy? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below.
A few days ago, while discussing my best of the west with a friend, he posed a question: “So what happens if Steve Nash gets traded?”
“So what if he does,” I replied. “And besides, there aren’t any rumors surrounding a trade with Nash.” I didn’t understand what he was getting at.
“No, I know,” he told me. “I just wanted to see if you’re really a Phoenix Suns fan or if you just like Steve Nash.”
Needless to say, I felt a little bit insulted. While I won’t argue that the leadership Nash provides for the team is invaluable, Steve Nash is a sure thing. When he’s racking up minutes on the court, it’s expected that we’ll be treated to some incredible basketball and his famous 3s that I swear hardly even swish the net. With Steve Nash, surprising plays are few and far between. That said, nothing has generated excitement for Suns fans - myself included - in recent weeks like the bench team has.
The last time the Phoenix Suns sparred against the Memphis Grizzlies, Alvin Gentry decided to put the 7-foot force of nature (otherwise known as Robin Lopez) in his starting line-up at center. The decision has seemingly paid off as Lopez has since been averaging close to 20 minutes per game with scoring well into the double digits during each outing. More importantly, I’d argue, is the defensive confidence Lopez has instilled in the team.
Despite our recent pummeling in Utah, Goran Dragic burned up the hardwood, scoring a career-high 32 points on January 25th. This unpredictable feat earned Dragic some due faith from his fans, his teammates and his coach.
I could make the argument that all a team needs to win games is a bunch of skilled players, but we all know that skills are only part of the equation. Momentum is key to taking talent and making it shine. As the Suns are now at home, fresh off a perfect road trip and leading their own way on a five-game winning streak, they’re in a prime position to keep the ball rolling – figuratively, of course.
Not only have Lopez and Dragic proven to be worth their weight in gold in recent weeks, we’ve seen incredibly stepped-up performances from Channing Frye and Jason Richardson with their flawless baskets. Lou Amundson has been displaying a keen eye in the paint on defense and Jared Dudley excitedly executes some intense hustling at both ends of the court.
Every well-oiled machine is made up of moving parts – each serving a unique purpose. However, without one component the rest are less effective. Just as the Phoenix Suns have an irreplaceable starting line-up, so too are their bench players proving to be equally imperative. With the 2010 All-Star Game around the corner and playoffs on the horizon, the Suns are in fine form and reminiscent of the unyielding plays we saw back in November. Like you, I’m confident we’ll see this latest movement continue. And while I have no doubt that our usual shining stars will continue to stand out, my adrenaline will really start to flow when Gentry unleashes his bench boys.
You can follow Keira-Anne on Twitter and you can read her thoughts on life north of the border at her personal blog, Keira-Anne.com.
Your weekday dose of Suns basketball in seven minutes or less. Listen to Matt Petersen and Fan X’s take on what’s going on with the Purple and Orange yesterday, today and in the near future.
Saturday features a full 24-minute shot-clock for the show, with a more in-depth look at the Suns, including responses to e-mail questions/comments from listeners. To submit your question/comment, email it to sevenminutesorless @fanster.com.
Amare to Philly won’t die, not with Suns VP going to a Hornets/Sixers game Friday night. Latest reports have the Suns wanting to package STAT and J-Rich for Andre Iguodala, Sam Dalembert and a third player, while Philly wants Barbosa’s friendlier contract instead. Keaton has second thoughts about dealing Stoudemire at all, while Matt wonders what J-Rich did to take Barbosa’s place on the trading block.
Today, Feb. 7th Steve Nash(Photo by Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images) turns 36 (it’s already 2010) and for the Sons of Steve Nash it feels like Christmas.
February 7th, 1974 it’s the day it all begun in sunny South Africa. So, to remind everyone about the importance of this date in Suns (and World’s) history, I’d like us to think why we love Steve without even mentioning MVP trophies, stats or 13 amazing years of Pro Basketball.
Here’s my Top Ten List:
Steve clearly can see things you people wouldn’t believe
Steve is pure genius on and off the court. I believe one day he’ll win the Nobel Prize, for whatever he wished.
In this “in your face” League Steve Nash simply plays the game with pride, intelligence and the consciousness there’s something bigger in life yet leaving all he got on the court each night.
Most NBA players have stories tattooed on their bodies, Steve actually reads them in books
The “0:07 seconds or less” Suns. You really think you’ll ever have more fun at a basketball game?
You won’t see another player in your life with the passing ability of Nash, unless you include Joe Montana in the list
Steve even looks good with that classic Canadian haircut
Your weekday dose of Suns basketball in seven minutes or less. Listen to Matt Petersen and Fan X’s take on what’s going on with the Purple and Orange yesterday, today and in the near future.
Saturday features a full 24-minute shot-clock for the show, with a more in-depth look at the Suns, including responses to e-mail questions/comments from listeners. To submit your question/comment, email it to sevenminutesorless @fanster.com.
Amare’s shown he can be dominant on both ends. Matt and Steve wonder where this has been the past half-decade, and whether it will continue. Also, Robin Lopez and Goran Dragic have shown signs after being taken for dead early in the season. Steve goes off on how impressive they are now, and what they need to do to become the future of the Suns.
Part I - What took so long, Amare?
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Part II - Dragic and Lopez well on their way
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The starting center for the Western Conference All-Stars feels he’s underappreciated in the NBA.
It’s not that Amare Stoudemire feels his current skills are underappreciated, he doesn’t even feel that people lack respect for what he’s accomplished since 2005. He isn’t even frustrated because of current trade rumors or the lack of a contract extension.
No, Stoudemire, the Phoenix Suns leading scorer and rebounder, is upset that he isn’t recognized as the first player to come out of high school and become an NBA star in his rookie year.
“Garnett was OK,” said Stoudemire, who has built upon his fine start by averaging 21.0 points and 8.9 rebounds for his career and making five All-Star Games. “Kobe was OK. McGrady was OK. But I was able to win Rookie of the Year. I was the first to ever do it [straight from high school]. Then LeBron gets it the year after. I think when LeBron came after me, he had so much hype that [people] tend to forget the fact that I was the first.”
I will say this, Tomasson probably baited Stoudemire with a leading question about the situation. No matter what you think about Amare, it’s hard to believe he just randomly volunteered the information. The problem is, regardless of the questions asked, he didn’t have to provide an answer. Especially an answer that comes off as bitter.
Imagine, if you will, an actor, let’s say Alec Baldwin. Imagine that Baldwin randomly said to Entertainment Weekly that he feels undervalued because his work on the soap opera The Doctors isn’t recognized anymore because Brad Pitt is viewed as the best actor to get his start in soaps. It wouldn’t make a lot of sense (mostly because it’s a crazy analogy involving soap operas on a sports website).
Why complain about the past when you’re having success in the present? Why look at the past when you still have the skills to be remembered for greater accomplishments in the future?
When you read that quote, your mind can’t help but conjure up images of Al Bundy talking about his four touchdowns in a high school football game.
It sounds like a one-time athlete reminiscing about the “glory days”, not an one in his prime.
As the Suns battle for a playoff spot and look to the future, Stoudemire is stuck thinking about the success of the past.
LeBron would happily give Amare back his spot atop the “high schooler turned rookie of year” list in exchange for an NBA title. LeBron is worried about making history, not reminiscing about it.
That’s the exact reason why the Suns can’t afford to offer Amare a max contract. It’s why they can’t build around him. He isn’t at the caliber of LeBron or Kobe. He doesn’t even seem overly concerned about catching up to them, just that his rookie season is remember with higher regard.
If Stoudemire doesn’t want to be overlooked, he should worry about how his career ends, not how it began. If he doesn’t, all he may be remembered as is one of the long list of high schoolers not to live up to their potential.
Stoudemire Believes He’s Overlooked in NBA History [FanHouse]
Should Amare be concerned about how his rookie season is viewed? Let us know how you feel in the comment section below.
Your weekday dose of Suns basketball in seven minutes or less. Listen to Matt Petersen and Fan X’s take on what’s going on with the Purple and Orange yesterday, today and in the near future.
Saturday features a full 24-minute shot-clock for the show, with a more in-depth look at the Suns, including responses to e-mail questions/comments from listeners. To submit your question/comment, email it to sevenminutesorless @fanster.com.
The last thing Matt and Keaton want is a letdown loss to the Kings after wins against playoff teams, so forgive them for feeling concerned about Steve Nash and Jason Richardson guarding the highest-scoring backcourt in the league. Also, Phoenix is now fifth in the West after bottoming out at ninth, but does that mean they can relax (Hint: look at the standings)?
Yeah, I know I just went on an entire rant about how I’m sick of Amare Stoudemiretrade rumors, but what the internet wants, the internet gets.
According to ESPN’s Chad Ford, the Phoenix Suns have interest in trading Amare and filler to the Philadelphia 76ers for Andre Iguodala and Samuel Dalembert.
Not a rumor we haven’t heard before. What’s new is that, according to Ford, it’s the Suns pursuing the deal and the Sixers who have been hesitant to pull the trigger.
“While there are a lot of deals the Suns wouldn’t do, this is one in which they’re interested in. It’s the Sixers that are holding up the process, I’m told. While nothing’s imminent, if Philadelphia GM Ed Stefanski sees an opportunity to unload Dalembert and thinks Stoudemire is the best player he can get, things could get hot quickly.”
While many fans aren’t intrigued by this deal, I’m not one of them. Iguodala can rebound, defend and pass the rock. He has the ability to score in bunches and has the kind of athleticism that fans love to see play along side Steve Nash.
Maybe it’s just a side effect of being burned out by Stoudemire trade talk, but I like Iguodala and Dalembert in return.
I liken it to being in a prolonged dating slump. After awhile, anything looks good as long as it breaks the streak. Especially when the alternative is the dreaded old hookup “Cap Space”.
As our friend Scott over at SeasonsofDiscontent.com said, “[The Suns] have drunk dialed Cap Space for a booty call too many times….and we always end up regretting it in the morning”.
A Fanster exclusive blogger and Steve Nash enthusiast, Steve Fan provides takes on Steve Nash and the Suns. Watch out because he has MVP caliber talent.
A new fan but seasoned author, Keira-Anne brings her passion for all things basketball to add her take on things from north of the border. Hailing from Steve Nash's stomping ground of Vancouver Island, this Vancouver blogger has been writing about life on the coast for more than five years. An eternal optimist and sometimes realist, Keira-Anne hopes that her love for the Phoenix Suns will translate into nothing short of exciting views of life on Planet Orange.
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Today, Feb. 7th 
