Head coach Mike Budenholzer of the Phoenix Suns
The Phoenix Suns are bringing back a familiar face to bolster their frontcourt depth, signing free agent center Frank Kaminsky to a training camp deal, according to his agency, Priority Sports. Per Gerald Bourguet of PHNX Sports, the details of the contract haven’t been fully revealed, but it’s likely to include Exhibit 9 and potentially Exhibit 10 clauses, making it a low-risk move for the Suns as they evaluate their roster.
Kaminsky, a 7-foot center and former lottery pick in the 2015 NBA Draft, has had a journeyman career in the league, most recently playing overseas with Serbian club Partizan Belgrade during the 2023-24 season. Now, the 31-year-old Wisconsin alum is set to make another bid for an NBA roster spot in a familiar environment.
Kaminsky’s Time in Phoenix
Kaminsky first signed with the Suns in the 2019-20 season and spent three seasons with the team. Over 95 games (26 starts), he averaged 8.2 points on efficient .468/.344/.682 shooting splits, along with 4.3 rebounds and 1.8 assists per game. Kaminsky played a key role as a versatile big man during his first stint, contributing solid offensive production off the bench, especially with his ability to stretch the floor.
However, Kaminsky struggled to maintain a consistent role in the NBA as of late. In the 2022-23 season, he split time between the Atlanta Hawks and Houston Rockets, appearing in 36 games as a deep-bench reserve. During that stint, he averaged 2.5 points, 1.4 rebounds, and 0.8 assists in limited minutes.
Suns’ Frontcourt Needs
The Suns, now loaded with star talent, including Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal, are looking to rebound from a disappointing 2023-24 campaign. Despite finishing with a 49-33 record, they were eliminated by the Minnesota Timberwolves in a first-round playoff sweep. The offseason has brought changes, with the firing of head coach Frank Vogel and the hiring of former Bucks champion Mike Budenholzer. Additionally, Phoenix added point guard Tyus Jones on a veteran’s minimum deal, likely pushing Grayson Allen to the bench.
Phoenix is already deep in the frontcourt with starting center Jusuf Nurkic and newly signed backup Mason Plumlee, but Kaminsky’s shooting range and offensive versatility could provide a valuable addition. Given the Suns’ need for a big man who can space the floor, Kaminsky could see an opportunity to carve out a role.
Kaminsky’s Path Forward
While Kaminsky’s offensive skillset, especially his ability to knock down shots from beyond the arc, fits well with Phoenix’s style of play, his defensive limitations have been a consistent challenge throughout his career. Whether or not the Suns decide to keep him beyond training camp will likely hinge on his ability to shore up his defense and make a strong impression on a team looking to compete for an NBA title.
With one roster spot left on their 15-man squad, Kaminsky will have to prove his worth over the course of training camp. Phoenix may find his skillset useful in certain matchups, but the team will need to weigh that against his defensive liabilities.
The upcoming training camp will determine whether Kaminsky can secure a place in the Suns’ rotation, adding veteran depth to a team with championship aspirations.
