Clippers guard Tyrone Wallace is finding stability for the first time in his professional career, David Yapkowitz of Basketball Insiders writes. Wallace, who was on a two-way contract last season, is making a guaranteed $1.34MM with the Clippers this season.
“It feels good. I think all the two-way guys obviously want a regular deal,” Wallace said. “But I think the two-way was good in terms of giving me an opportunity and giving guys an opportunity to go out there and show that they can be regular contract guys. You use it to that advantage and play well, then it feels good to be a year removed and on a regular deal.”
The Clippers matched Wallace’s offer sheet from New Orleans in September, retaining his services for a second consecutive season. He’s appeared in 30 games, averaging 3.7 points and 1.5 rebounds per contest on 44% shooting.
Wallace, 24, is an influence for several players working to earn a regular contract in the NBA. He started his career in the G League after being drafted with the 60th pick in 2016, working his way up the ladder for his current deal.
“I think I’m a guy that comes in and is able to be versatile,” Wallace said. “I can help defensively, guard multiple positions, try to attack in the open court, be aggressive, but just a team player. I come in and help these guys whichever way coach [Rivers] and the team feels I need to.”
There’s more from the Pacific Division tonight:
- Veteran forward Quincy Acy is making an early impression on the Suns, Duane Rankin of the Arizona Republic writes. Acy signed a 10-day contract to join the team on Monday. “I’m used to kind integrating myself,” Acy said. “Just being myself. I’m a personable guy. I’m just about winning. When everybody is trying to come together and win, everything else goes out the window.”
- ESPN’s Dave McMenamin examines whether the Lakers have a No. 2 option behind superstar LeBron James, detailing the games of Kyle Kuzma, Brandon Ingram and others. Kuzma took charge in the team’s win over Detroit on Wednesday, scoring 42 points in 29 minutes.
- Suns general manager James Jones was joined by Devin Booker, Deandre Ayton and Jamal Crawford at a recent downtown discussion for a $230MM proposed arena renovation, according to the Arizona Republic. The proposal would upgrade Talking Stick Resort Arena, where the Suns currently play, along with their practice facilities.