Brian Windhorst details Phoenix’s aggressive strategy to integrate the former Hornets star into a high-usage role while navigating looming extension talks before he hits unrestricted free agency.
The Phoenix Suns are on the verge of opening up the 2026-27 season. Roughly seven weeks remain until training camp opens up ahead of the preseason opener on October 5.
One new face that is in the fold for Suns fans to get used to is 2018 lottery pick Miles Bridges, who is heading into a new era with Phoenix after eight seasons with the Charlotte Hornets.
The general expectation has been that Phoenix fully intends to hand Bridges the key to a sizable role this season, as well as a contract extension, however those notions have been quiet as of late.
More conversation re-opened in regards to plans the Suns have for Bridges on Friday, when ESPN insider Brian Windhorst discussed his impending role and contract status.
From Windhorst:
"[Phoenix] not only has an intent to pay him, but they have an intent to really give him a big role."
The notion seems to be at the moment that the two sides will wait to discuss an extension until at least when the offseason concludes in late September. This is a priority for the organization, as he is set to become an unrestricted free agent next summer otherwise.
As far as Bridges' role goes, it has long been expected that he will slot in as the starting power forward ahead of second-year rising star Rasheer Fleming. This is simply further evidence backing up this belief.
All eyes will be set on how Bridges adapts to Phoenix's offense, which will be quite a transition - particularly offensively. The Suns are set to operate a more balanced approach compared to what the 28-year old saw in Charlotte, with more of an emphasis being set on being unafraid to utilize the shot clock to find quality looks.
The fit between Bridges, franchise player Devin Booker, and sixth-year flamethrower Jalen Green, as all three are typically ball-dominant. The defensive rotations, communication, and execution will be closely scrutinized between the three as well.
Back to the contract - the fact of the matter is that Phoenix should most likely wait until after the 2026-27 season to discuss another contract, as there is no guarantee that this will prove to be a long-term pairing at this very moment. Bridges' regular season debut with the Suns will be on October 21 in a road battle against the Portland Trail Blazers, who are also integrating a talented newcomer in point guard Ja Morant.
