Pacific Notes: Chandler, Richardson, Lakers

Though Earl Watson is well aware that the final decision isn’t up to him, the Suns head coach wants big man Tyson Chandler to stay in Phoenix. According to Doug Haller of the Arizona Republic, Watson cites Chandler’s willingness to teach his younger teammates as the biggest reason why he remains so valuable.

“I have very little input, but if it was up to me, I love Tyson Chandler,” Watson said. “I think our front office loves Tyson Chandler. Tyson wants to be a part of this process. He doesn’t mind the work and building.”

As the 2017 trade deadline approaches, teams will inevitably inquire about the 34-year-old low post presence. Especially because in his 16th season, Chandler is averaging 8.3 points and 12.3 rebounds per game. The veteran is under contract through the 2018/19, but could fortify the frontcourt of a playoff team.

“I’m a loyalty guy. I’m really taking pride in helping the process of these young players,” Chandler says. “If things change and somebody comes to me with a conversation, then I’ll have to address it, but I don’t even let my mind go there.”

There’s more out of the Pacific Division:

• Used sparingly through the first few months of his rookie season, Malachi Richardson didn’t expect to get the taste of first-quarter action he did on Saturday. Jason Jones of the Sacramento Bee suggests that it might be Dave Joerger‘s December decision to give the Kings shooting guard extra opportunities finally coming to fruition. Already well-equipped to handle himself on offense, the Syracuse product will need to improve upon his defense, suggests teammate Garrett Temple.
• The Lakers would be better off emphasizing player development than chasing a playoff spot, writes Eric Pincus of Bleacher Report. Changes to the league’s collective bargaining agreement put extra pressure on drafting players now that it will be harder to pry players away from other teams via free agency. A potential No. 3 pick in 2017 could be the next key component of Los Angeles’ process.
• The Clippers could soon face the reality that their championship window is closing, writes Moke Hamilton of Basketball Insiders. Years of attrition has taken its toll on the club and they may not get many more opportunities to contend for a ring with the current squad.