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Drew Eubanks to Remain with Suns for Next Season

The Phoenix Suns seem keen on retaining Drew Eubanks for the upcoming 2024-25 season, despite earlier considerations of parting ways with him this offseason.

“The full organization wants me back and I want to be a Phoenix Sun next year,” Eubanks told AZ Central’s Duane Rankin. “I’m going to make the best decision for my family and I when the time comes.”

Eubanks has the option to extend his contract, which was initially a veteran minimum deal signed last year. He has until June 29 to decide on his player option. While he earned $2.3 million this past season, opting in would see his salary rise to $2.6 million for the next season.

Eric Gordon, Josh Okogie, and Damion Lee also hold player options to extend their veteran minimum contracts for another season. Additionally, the Suns retain Royce O’Neale’s bird rights if they opt for a contract extension.

John Gambadoro of Arizona Sports had previously indicated that Eubanks might not return next season and suggested Eric Gordon might also depart after their first year with the team.

However, Gambadoro hinted that this outlook could change following the appointment of Mike Budenholzer as the Suns’ new head coach, just two days after Frank Vogel was fired.

Vogel’s departure occurred a week and a half following the Suns’ disappointing elimination in the first round of the playoffs against the Minnesota Timberwolves. In the aftermath, the team opted to hire former Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer, signing him to a lucrative five-year, $50 million contract.

Standing at 6 feet 10 inches and weighing 245 pounds, Eubanks served as the backup center this past season, averaging 5.1 points on 60.1% shooting and 4.3 rebounds in 75 games. Despite his stats, some fans preferred Thaddeus Young over Eubanks.

The Suns also incurred a penalty of forfeiting a second-round pick this season due to early discussions regarding acquiring Eubanks in the offseason.