According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, Suns guard Damion Lee is returning to Phoenix on a one-year deal after declining his $2.85 million player option for the 2024-25 season.
Lee missed the 2023-24 season due to a torn right meniscus. In the 2022-23 season, he averaged 8.2 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 1.3 assists in 20.4 minutes per game, playing in 74 games for the Suns.
Free agent guard Damion Lee is returning to the Phoenix Suns on a one-year deal, sources tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/wHcqunaKm9
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 3, 2024
This signing provides the Suns’ coach, Mike Budenholzer, with a reliable shooter, a type he has effectively utilized in past rosters. Lee is known for his ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor in a reserve role, excelling against scrambling defenses and in read-and-react offenses—elements Budenholzer values in his play style for Phoenix.
“Playing fast and playing random, with the ball and people moving, are things I believe in. Hopefully, there are big chunks of the game where you can see that,” Budenholzer has said.
Sound On 🔊
Yes, Damion Lee brings sharp shooting to the Suns:
· 46.8% from 3
· 48.3% on C&S (2nd in NBA)
· 64.5 TS%But the subtleties – in IQ/skill/event causing movement – make him much more than just that
He's *really* going to help the Suns as games grow more meaningful pic.twitter.com/wFzhR7W3gw
— Stephen PridGeon ☯️🏁 (@StayTrueSDot3) January 12, 2023
Lee’s value particularly shines in these dynamic settings. During the 2022-23 season, he played a more significant role than expected due to team injuries, finishing near the top of the league in three-point shooting percentages on catch-and-shoot attempts. His 47.0% from three ranked third in the league for players with 3.1 or more attempts per game. More broadly, for players with 3.3 or more attempts per game, his 44.5% clip ranked fourth.
Beyond his shooting and spacing abilities, Lee possesses the basketball IQ and feel for playing with primary ball handlers, ensuring he can always contribute effectively.
