As I outlined yesterday when I looked at Aaron Brooks' stock in free agency, the time Brooks spent playing in China means the Suns have exclusive negotiating rights with the restricted free agent until July. According to Paul Coro of the Arizona Republic, Phoenix remains undecided on how to act on the point guard.
Adding Brooks to the current Suns roster, which already features three point guards, seems unlikely with just over three weeks remaining in the season. However, letting the 27-year-old hit restricted free agency again this summer would mean opening up the bidding to a number of other suitors, potentially driving up the price and reducing Phoenix's leverage.
"It's put us in a situation where we need to have some serious conversations, internally and potentially with Aaron, about the state of where we are and what's going to make the most sense with the organization," Suns GM Lance Blanks said. "I can't give you A or B right now, but it certainly needs to be discussed. He's a NBA-level point guard and a pretty good one. Does it make sense now or later?"
Blanks traveled to China last week to visit Brooks and watch him play in the best-of-seven CBA Finals, which Brooks' Guangdong Southern Tigers ended up losing 4-1. Still, the Phoenix GM was glad to get a chance to talk to Brooks and was impressed with what he saw.
"He looked like Aaron, especially in (Game 5)," Blanks said. "He had a substantial moment or two in the second half where he took over. It was virtually impossible to stay in front of him, similar to when he was here. He looked in good shape and engaged."