Coming primarily off of the bench, Damion Lee played in 63 games for the Golden State Warriors during the 2021-22 season. Now, he’s headed to another Western Conference contender.
Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN reported on Friday night that Lee is headed to the Phoenix Suns.
Free agent guard Damion Lee has agreed to a one-year deal with the Phoenix Suns, source tells ESPN.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 2, 2022
The NBA world had a big reaction to the signing.
A shooter! https://t.co/6pke5J6hgj
— Brendon Kleen (@BrendonKleen14) July 2, 2022
A good depth piece to have in the wing rotation. Lee is smart and plays hard within his role. Good defender and gives the Suns some much-needed athleticism. Fits the profile for sure. https://t.co/2CKQssCsS7
— Kellan Olson (@KellanOlson) July 2, 2022
W PICKUP FROM THE SUNS!!!! https://t.co/nSAhnBtJJ9 pic.twitter.com/wHo4Jr2HZ7
— The Underrated (@Paschanimal1) July 2, 2022
— Golden State of Mind (@unstoppablebaby) July 2, 2022
Surprised. I thought he was a made man w/#Warriors https://t.co/eBN3850Hik
— Larry Krueger (@sportslarryk) July 2, 2022
Suns finally get someone with championship experience and leadership. https://t.co/kQ35KK33EE
— Joe Viray (@JoeVirayNBA) July 2, 2022
Lee is the brother-in-law of reigning NBA Finals MVP Steph Curry. That naturally created some skepticism that he only had a spot on an NBA roster because of his family ties.
But this goes a long way towards disproving that.
This is what I call a lose-lose:
Warriors lose because they lost Damion Lee
Fans lose because their absurd claims of Lee only being on the roster due to nepotism have been proven incorrect
Guess the Suns win but who cares about them https://t.co/XKmvrukiA3
— Brady Klopfer (@BradyKlopferNBA) July 2, 2022
During the regular season, he averaged 19.9 minutes, 7.4 points and 3.2 rebounds per game, while shooting 44.1% from the field, 33.7% on threes and 88% on free throws. For his career, Lee has averaged 21 minutes, 8.2 points and 3.5 rebounds a game and has made 43.4% of his field goals, 35.7% of his threes and 86.8% of his free throws.
So, while his minutes in the postseason were more limited, Lee has proven that he can be a contributor on a championship team.
As far as long-term rammifications, we must remember that Kevin Durant has requested a trade from the Brooklyn Nets and has listed Phoenix as one of two desired destinations.
oh great so KD will team up with a Curry family member again??? https://t.co/qHacljyLy2
— sreekar (@sreekyshooter) July 2, 2022
If the Suns are going to get Durant, they’re going to lose some depth. Signing Lee could help fill whatever void is left if that trade does happen.
And if that trade doesn’t come to fruition, simply acquiring a player who averaged just under 20 minutes a game for an NBA Champion may not be a bad move, either.