NBA Notes: Suns, Collin Gillespie, Pelicans, Draft, 76ers

Suns

The Suns are betting big on Collin Gillespie.

According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Phoenix has agreed to a four-year, $48 million contract with the free-agent guard. Jake Fischer of The Stein Line reported that the deal is fully guaranteed.

The agreement comes on the heels of a breakout season for Gillespie, who emerged as one of the Suns’ most reliable players while helping the team return to the playoffs.

The 26-year-old averaged career highs of 12.7 points, 4.6 assists and 4.1 rebounds while appearing in 80 games. He also set a franchise record with 232 made three-pointers.

As Charania noted, Gillespie has become a symbol of the Suns’ renewed emphasis on toughness and competitiveness under the organization’s current direction.

The contract also represents a remarkable rise for the former Villanova standout, who entered the NBA as an undrafted free agent and previously signed multiple two-way deals before earning his first long-term contract.

Pelicans

The Pelicans reportedly remain interested in moving into the lottery.

If New Orleans is able to acquire a higher pick, Rod Walker of NOLA.com believes the organization should focus on addressing three major needs — rebounding, rim protection and outside shooting.

One prospect believed to be on the Pelicans’ radar is Tennessee forward Nate Ament, who continues to draw interest from several teams near the top half of the draft.

76ers

The Sixers enter the offseason facing familiar questions about depth and durability.

In an offseason preview for Spotrac, Keith Smith noted that Joel Embiid remained highly productive whenever he was healthy enough to play, while Paul George also delivered strong stretches after returning from suspension.

However, Philadelphia’s financial limitations could make significant roster upgrades difficult.

Smith suggested the Sixers are likely to exercise several team options, bring back either Kelly Oubre Jr. or Quentin Grimes, and rely on veteran minimum contracts to fill out much of the remaining roster.