Why Pat Spencer could be the Suns’ latest surprise contributor

The Phoenix Suns front office has done a solid job over the last two years of identifying under-the-radar talent.

Collin Gillespie and Jordan Goodwin are the latest examples of this. Jamaree Bouyea provided real production for key stretches last season. To a lesser extent, we all saw Dillon Brooks breakout in his new home as well. He was much more on the radar than the others mentioned, of course. You get the point. The Suns have a type.

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From a cultural perspective, this is who you want to bring in. A hard-nosed competitor who isn’t afraid to mix it up, chirp a little, and make winning basketball plays. He doesn’t need the ball to make an impact. He embraces doing the little things.

Enter Pat Spencer

The Suns signed the 30-year-old guard to a two-way contract in early July, an acquisition that sailed under most national radars. On the surface, it’s a sensible depth move. The guard rotation needed fortification after some early offseason uncertainty.

But dig deeper, and this signing tells you everything about how the front office operates in 2026.

PHOENIX, ARIZONA – FEBRUARY 05: Jordan Goodwin #23 of the Phoenix Suns pressures Pat Spencer #61 of the Golden State Warriors during the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center on February 05, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Pat Spencer arrives in Phoenix fresh off the best season of his career with Golden State Warriors.

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In 66 games (14 starts), he averaged 7.2 points, 3.5 assists, and 2.4 rebounds, shooting 42.7% from the field and 35.7% from three-point range. Those headline numbers don’t immediately jump off the page, but his starting splits do.

As a starter, he averaged 11.4 points, 5.1 assists, and 3.4 rebounds per game while shooting 40% from three.

Pat was playing in a Warriors system without heavy volume. Steve Kerr wasn’t running the offense through him, becuase they have a guy named Steph Curry (yes he missed…

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Publish date : 2026-08-17 12:00:00

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