Eric Bledsoe rumors: Phoenix Suns expected to retain Bledsoe
Phoenix Suns’ guard Eric Bledsoe is viewed as one of the most promising young players in the league.
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After being dealt from the Los Angeles Clippers to the Suns in a deal that netted the Clippers former Orlando Magic and Milwaukee Bucks’ guard J.J. Redick, most expected Bledsoe to have a breakout season. He did just that, but he was injured again and missed 39 games, a tough break for a Suns’ team that won 48 games and barely missed out on the postseason.
Injuries could be one reason Bledsoe hasn’t gotten as much attention now that he is on the open market (although the Miami Heat and Milwaukee Bucks reportedly have expressed interest).
With the Suns acquiring Sacramento Kings’ point guard Isaiah Thomas and drafting former Syracuse Orange point guard Tyler Ennis, there has speculation the Suns may be preparing to part ways with Bledsoe.
However, Lang Greene of Basketball Insiders expects the Suns to retain Bledsoe.
"The Suns landed talented point guard Isaiah Thomas in a sign-and-trade last week, which immediately led to speculation on how the deal impacted Bledsoe’s personal situation with the franchise. The club also introduced promising guard Tyler Ennis into the fold during the first round of June’s draft.However, multiple reports maintain the Suns aren’t viewing the Ennis and Thomas additions as an indicator Bledsoe is on the outs. In fact, Phoenix has started contract discussions with Bledsoe’s camp but the guard has also generated some exploratory interest from the Milwaukee Bucks."
Bledsoe averaged 17.7 points, 5.5 assists, 4.7 rebounds and 1.6 steals per game while shooting 47.7% from the field, 35.7% from beyond the arc and 77.2% from the free throw line last season.