Barry still mulling his decision
February 26th, 2008, 3:12 pm · Post a Comment · posted by jerrybrown
The Brent Barry Derby dragged into late Tuesday afternoon without a resolution but the Suns still feel they are in the running with San Antonio to sign the veteran free agent.
Suns general manager Steve Kerr was scouting the Texas-Kansas State game in Manhattan Monday night when he decided he wanted to meet with Barry personally. After the game, he drove to Kansas City and flew to San Antonio where he met with Barry and his wife for about two hours on Tuesday morning.
Kerr, who was on his way out of San Antonio this afternoon, said he expected Barry’s decision to come very shortly. He wouldn’t comment on reports that Barry is now deciding between only Phoenix and San Antonio – where he won a pair of championships with the Spurs in 2005 and 2007 and has his family rooted.
The Suns can offer Barry more playing time and more crucial role with the team. Phoenix is in need of not only another 3-point shooter to create better spacing on the floor but a player capable of handling the ball and keeping the offense moving when Steve Nash is out of the lineup.
There are indications that Barry, who turned 36 on New Year’s Eve, want to play beyond this season and is looking for a two-year committment from the Suns or any team seeking to sign him. Since he’s already made $5.6 million this season he’d likely be willing to see the prorated veteran’s minimum, but would that be enough for 2007-08?
If the Suns fail to land Barry, the Suns aren’t likely to pursue another veteran guard, Sam Cassell, if as expected his contract is bought out by the Clippers. But the Suns will be watching to see if shooter Gordan Giricek, who has played sparingly in Philadelphia since being sent there in the Kyle Korver deal with Utah two months ago, is bought out by the Sixers. Philadelphia will be in Phoenix to play the Suns on Saturday, the deadline for free agents to sign with team and remain eligible for the playoffs.
