After converting his two-way contract into an NBA deal, the Phoenix Suns are releasing guard Mike James, league sources told Yahoo Sports.
James, a 27-year-old point guard, has made a positive impact in his rookie season, averaging 10.4 points, 3.8 assists and 2.8 rebounds in 32 games (10 starts). He signed a contract with Phoenix for the remainder of the season, but the sides mutually decided to part ways to give James an opportunity to land elsewhere after falling out of the rotation in the last four games.
“Mike established himself as an NBA player here and our partnership proved to be beneficial,” Suns general manager Ryan McDonough told Yahoo Sports. “Mike had a handful of 20-point games and helped us win a few games. We wish Mike the best as he works to find another home.”
James’ release comes as young star Devin Booker and rookie Davon Reed are working to return to the court for the Suns, while Isaiah Canaan also has had strong performances since joining the team on an injury-hardship exemption. Canaan, who’s averaged 13 points and five assists in four games backing up Tyler Ulis, agreed to a minimum deal for the remainder of the season on Friday, league sources told Yahoo Sports.
James made his debut in the NBA this season after spending his previous pro seasons overseas. He went undrafted in 2012 after attending Lamar and Eastern Arizona.
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