Royce O’Neale signs four year, $44 million contract to remain with the Phoenix Suns

We knew it was coming, but now that Woj has let us know in Twitter-form, it become official. The Phoenix Suns, who acquired Royce O’Neale at the trade deadline last season from the Brooklyn Nets, will remain in Phoenix. He is signing a four-year, $44 million contract with the team.

O’Neale played in 30 games with the Suns last season, providing them with a true 3-and-D threat as he played 25.1 minutes per game. He averaged 8.1 points, 5.2 rebounds, and shot 37.6% from beyond the arc.

While his perimeter defense wasn't the greatest, O’Neale did a stellar job when defending those who attempting to penetrate. His active hands combined with lateral quickness made it tough for the opposition to touch the paint.

Having O’Neale return to the Suns is big, especially considering how hampered this team is by the second apron. With three of their four player option-eligible players choosing not to return, the Suns are in desperate need of filling out a roster around their Big Three of Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, and Bradley Beal. Someone needs to spell them, someone needs to give them rest, and someone needs to fill in for them when they are injured and unavailable to play (because that will happen).

Royce O’Neale gives the Suns a potent top-six lineup, which includes the Big Three, Jusuf Nurkic, and Grayson Allen.

The specifics of the deal have yet to be released, but the fact that Phoenix was able to bring O’Neale back with an average salary of $11 million is a big win for James Jones and the Suns. His contract is tradable if need be and allows the team some semblance of flexibility moving forward.

More dominos will soon fall as teams can begin negotiating with players who they did not roster last season effective 3:00pm Arizona time tomorrow. Stay tuned to Bright Side for all of the craziness that will surely ensue.