Phoenix Suns Negotiating Extension With Eric Bledsoe

The Suns are working on a long-term deal with recently-acquired guard Eric Bledsoe. If something can’t be worked out by the end of the month, Bledsoe will become a restricted free agent next summer. Per Arizona Sports: “The Suns are in an interesting spot because they’ve only seen the Kentucky product in training camp and a few preseason games, and it’s still uncertain that he will become the star many project him to be. Nonetheless, general manager Ryan McDonough, while on Arizona Sports 620’s Burns & Gambo show Wednesday, agreed that Bledsoe does figure into the team’s long-term plans. McDonough said contract talks with the fourth-year player have gone ‘pretty well’ to this point. ‘If we’re not able to work out a deal (by Oct. 31), we would start next summer with Eric as a restricted free agent, but obviously we’re hoping to get something done before that,’ the general manager said. Despite getting limited playing time for the Los Angeles Clippers behind star point guard Chris Paul, Bledsoe produced when he was given a chance to start and play extended minutes, McDonough said, and those factors will figure into what type of deal the Suns want to offer him. ‘With Eric, there’s more projection. Some would say there’s more risk, but I’d also counter that there’s more upside,’ McDonough, 33, said. ‘He does some unique things athletically. I think he’s the best shot-blocking guard in the league. If he plays extended minutes, which he will for us, I think he might lead the league in steals. He has a unique potential.'”