Greg Monroe found his way to Phoenix as part of the Eric Bledsoe trade with Milwaukee as the center’s $17 million expiring deal helped make the money work between the two sides.
The Suns made it clear early on the plan was to eventually move Monroe, but apparently flipping him in a trade was not something they were able to pull off. Monroe’s $17 million expiring deal made him difficult to move for assets, and with the Suns apparently unable to find a deal for a more established player to put Monroe in a package for, they have decided to move on from Monroe by buying him out.
The Phoenix Suns have agreed to a contract buyout with Greg Monroe, league sources tell ESPN.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 1, 2018
Monroe’s departure from Phoenix was hinted at by his absence from the team on Wednesday night, and sure enough, he and the Suns have come to an agreement to part ways. Monroe has been solid this season, averaging 10.4 points and 7.4 rebounds per game, so while he didn’t fit Phoenix’s plans for the future, he will assuredly have some interest from teams once clearing waivers.
Plenty of playoff contenders will have interest in adding the center, as the Celtics, Cavaliers and Pelicans are easy to point to as teams with needs in the frontcourt for their playoff push.
Look for the #Celtics to have interest in Greg Monroe, a definite post presence, can score around the rim and showed in MIL and PHX he can come off the bench. Also, would love to join winning situation.
— gary washburn (@GwashburnGlobe) February 1, 2018
Keep an eye on the Celtics. https://t.co/md6Jwi52aW
— Zach Lowe (@ZachLowe_NBA) February 1, 2018