The Phoenix Suns have reportedly inked a deal with forward Mamadi Diakite on an Exhibit 10 contract, bringing in a new player to the team. This move is especially exciting because it reunites new head coach Mike Budenholzer with a familiar face. According to HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto, Diakite will join the Suns on a training camp deal.
Diakite, a Guinea native, played a limited role in the Milwaukee Bucks’ championship run, seeing action in just 14 regular-season games and seven playoff games. Despite his limited playing time, he started in the final game of the season for the Bucks and put up a solid performance. In a game against the Chicago Bulls, Diakite tallied 13 points, seven rebounds, three steals, one block, and one assist in 38 minutes.
Prior to his stint with the Bucks, Diakite has also had stints with the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Cleveland Cavaliers. Now, he will have the opportunity to showcase his skills with the Suns, albeit in the G League predominantly.
While the reunion between Budenholzer and Diakite is a positive development, it is unlikely that the forward will have a significant role with the Suns. With Kevin Durant set to start at power forward and Jusuf Nurkic at center, and backups like Royce O’Neale, Mason Plumlee, Ryan Dunn, and Bol Bol in place, there is little room for Diakite in the rotation at this point.
Despite showing potential, Diakite will likely spend most of his time developing in the G League, as is often the case with players signed to Exhibit 10 contracts. It remains to be seen if he can make an impact with the Suns down the line, but for now, his opportunities with the team are limited.
