Miami Heat targets to poach from the Suns: Cameron Payne
Cameron Payne had an incredible year with the Phoenix Suns that realistically started in The Bubble last year. Before that, he was playing overseas.
His comeback story in the NBA is absolutely amazing. He was once known as “the tank commander,” but spent all of last season contributing big-time minutes on a Finals team.
Last year, Payne averaged 8.4 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 3.6 assists. He shot 48.4% from the field and 44% from three-point range.
Realistically, he could be an underrated option to be the starting point guard in Miami next season. With Jimmy Butler’s playmaking ability, he wouldn’t have to worry about handling the ball all the time.
His super-efficient three-point shooting would fit in beautifully with the Heat’s starting lineup. At the same time, though, he would likely be better off as a sixth man.
However, Miami certainly won’t be the only team making a run at Payne this offseason. With how well he played, there will definitely be a market for the point guard.
Some team could possibly overpay him, but a realistic price point is probably around $5-$8 million per season. That’s not a bad deal for the Miami Heat, who desperately need depth at the guard position.
Payne is a great backup option if they don’t land someone like Kyle Lowry or Lonzo Ball. Even if they do get one of those top guards, he would be great off the bench.