It’s been some time since the Phoenix Suns I saw Damion Lee in uniform on the field. 307 days, to be exact. Lee logged 11:36 and went 3 of 4 from the field in the Suns’ final games of the 2022-23 season, a Game 6 loss to the Denver Nuggets.
This past offseason, the former NBA champion became a free agent. Based on the year he spent with Phoenix – he finished third in the NBA in three-point shooting percentage at 44.5% – it was assumed he would win somewhere. Every NBA team needs a three-point shot.
Lee, however, chose to stay in the Valley and stay with the Suns. He signed a two-year, $5.4 million contract with a player option in the second year.
“Damion’s elite three-point shooting,” commented James Jones, “championship experience and tenacity help elevate our team. His leadership and professionalism are essential in our quest for the NBA title.
“I definitely wanted to come back.” Lee said after re-signing. “Especially talking to Book, the love felt here in the Valley, there’s no other love like it. Even when we go to the stores, the fans feel like they’re part of the team. And it’s just that hunger of wanting to not only play for yourself but play for the city. But for me, it was if the opportunity presented itself, wanting to come back. And that’s what happened, and coming back on a multi-year contract was something I was looking forward to.
Unfortunately for Lee and the Suns as a team, he was injured during training camp. His right meniscus would require surgery and he would be out indefinitely.
It’s been a long road back for Damion, and there are signs that his return may soon be on the horizon. The Suns are currently on a four-game East Coast tour, and Lee is with the team.
Damion Lee (knee) was on a four-game road trip. #Suns
-Duane Rankin (@DuaneRankin) March 13, 2024
Although we are not sure of the return time, it is a good sign. Being surrounded by the team, undergoing the movements and rigors of the trip; everything points to the possibility that we could see Damion back on the field soon.
The Suns’ guard depth has been tested at times, and knowing that someone with scoring ability like Lee can be waiting in the wings is comforting. Phoenix needs to do a better job of generating offense from its second team. Their bench unit is 29th in the league in scoring and last in three-pointers made. Lee’s return would certainly help in these areas.
We will wait to see how his progress goes. Hopefully he feels much better and Frank Vogel will be able to get him back into shape before the Suns playoff run.
