The Phoenix Suns have made a bold move, shaking up their roster just before the start of the regular season. In a surprising turn of events, they waived two players, guard Damion Baugh and forward Tyrese Samuel, after the final preseason game against the Lakers. This decision comes as a shock to many fans, especially considering the team's upcoming schedule.
Both players were acquired by the Suns organization recently. Baugh, who played 15 games for the Charlotte Hornets last season, was traded to the Valley Suns G League team in September. He showed potential, averaging 7.3 points, 3.7 assists, and 3.3 rebounds per game, but it wasn't enough to secure his spot. As for Samuel, he spent the previous season with the Valley Suns but never got the chance to play in the NBA, despite his college basketball experience at Florida.
But here's where it gets intriguing: neither Baugh nor Samuel saw any action during the preseason. The Suns' preseason schedule included two games in Macao, China, yet these players didn't get any minutes on the court. This raises questions about the team's evaluation process and the players' readiness for the NBA.
NBA teams often experiment with their rosters during the offseason, expanding beyond the standard 15-man lineup. This allows them to assess various players and make informed decisions. However, the Suns still have one more cut to make before the season opener on October 22 against the Sacramento Kings. And this is the part that might spark debate: was it fair to waive players without giving them a chance to showcase their skills in preseason games?
The Suns' move has certainly generated discussion among fans and analysts alike. Some argue that the team is making room for more experienced players, while others believe that Baugh and Samuel deserved more of a chance to prove themselves. What's your take on this strategy? Is it a necessary step towards building a competitive team, or could the Suns have handled it differently?
