The Phoenix Suns signed Tyson Chandler in free agency this past offseason with the hope that he would be the leader on a young team with a lot of potential. When they signed him they were also hopeful that Chandler would help bring LaMarcus Aldridge to Phoenix. Aldridge did seriously consider signing with the Suns but ultimately chose the Spurs.
Even without Aldridge, this Suns team was expected to compete for a playoff spot as they have a bunch of talented players, but that has not happened. Injuries, a coaching change and underwhelming play from some players have led to an extremely disappointing season in Phoenix.
Chandler is one of those players who has been underwhelming this season as he is averaging just 6.5 points and 8.5 rebounds per game. Chandler has dealt with several different injuries throughout the year, including his current back issue which doesn't seem to be too serious, and that has played a role in his year.
Chandler won an NBA Championship with the Dallas Mavericks back in 2010, and he is used to winning. Because of that this season is obviously not sitting well with him, and he made it clear that he does not want to be part of a team that is going through a long rebuild. That would make it seem like Chandler believes the Suns are rebuilding, and he wants a way out, but he clarified that statement about a week later when he said he doesn't feel the Suns are rebuilding.
Chandler signed a four-year, $52 million deal with the Suns last offseason, so he is likely to be there for three more seasons whether he likes it or not. The Suns could look to try and trade him with young center Alex Len taking a major step forward this season, but that may not be realistic as there aren't many teams that would be willing to take on that contract with his skills seemingly diminished significantly.
As for whether the Suns are rebuilding, Chandler may be right when he says they aren't. Eric Bledsoe and T.J. Warren have been hurt, and Brandon Knight has been in and out of the lineup. If they can get healthy next year and maybe add a free agent the Suns could be in the playoff hunt, especially when you take into account the emergence of Devin Booker.
