The Suns are the frontrunners to sign Chase Budinger once he clears waivers, Candace Buckner of The Indianapolis Star reports (Twitter link). Budinger has reportedly agreed to a buyout with the Pacers, though it isn’t expected to be finalized until after Friday’s contest against the Hornets is complete because of Indiana’s injury woes.
Phoenix has an open roster spot, so no additional move would be required to sign Budinger. The Suns could benefit from the player’s ability to stretch the floor with his outside shooting, though Budinger’s mark of 29.9% from deep on the season would be a career low if it stands. Because Budinger was waived after March 1st, he isn’t playoff eligible for another team, but with the Suns well out of the postseason hunt with a mark of 15-45, that wouldn’t be an issue for the veteran swingman if he were to sign with Phoenix.
Budinger, 27, has appeared in 48 games for the Pacers this season, including two starts. He is averaging 4.5 points, 2.5 rebounds and 1.0 assist in 15.0 minutes per night to accompany a shooting line of .419/.299/.708. The small forward’s career numbers are 8.1 points, 3.1 rebounds and 1.2 assists.