The Phoenix Suns have officially secured their star player, Devin Booker, by signing him to a remarkable two-year, $145 million maximum contract extension. This deal, reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania on Wednesday night, ensures that the talented guard will remain with the Suns through the 2029-30 NBA season. With this extension, Booker now holds the record for the highest annual extension salary in NBA history.
Since being drafted as the No. 13 overall pick in 2015, Devin Booker has been an integral part of the Suns' organization. Over his ten seasons with the team, he has established himself as a franchise cornerstone, amassing a staggering 16,452 career points and setting the record for the most 3-pointers made in team history with 1,424. Booker's consistent performance has seen him average over 25 points per game for seven consecutive seasons, showcasing his scoring prowess with an impressive shooting percentage of 46.1% from the field.
This contract extension reflects the strong commitment the Suns have to Devin Booker, especially in light of recent developments. Booker had previously signed a four-year, $224 million supermax extension in 2022, underscoring his value to the team. Earlier this week, The Athletic reported that the Suns were optimistic about finalizing an extension with Booker. ESPN further highlighted that team owner Mat Ishbia met with Booker in Las Vegas on Wednesday to finalize the details of the deal.
The average annual value (AAV) of this new extension stands at an impressive $72.5 million. This figure surpasses the AAV of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s four-year, $285 million extension, which is valued at $71.25 million. This record-breaking contract not only highlights Booker's elite status in the league but also the Suns' dedication to building a championship-caliber team around him.
Earlier this year, Ishbia dismissed any speculation regarding a potential trade involving Booker. In a conversation with ESPN in March, he firmly stated, “Never happen. It’s silly. So here’s what I’ll tell you: I have Devin Booker in the prime. In order to win an NBA championship, you got to have a superstar. You got to have a great player.” This sentiment has now been solidified with the recent extension, showcasing the Suns' unwavering belief in Booker's ability to lead the team to future successes.
In conclusion, the Phoenix Suns have made a significant investment in Devin Booker, ensuring that this talented guard will continue to be a vital part of their franchise for years to come. With the highest annual extension salary in NBA history, the Suns are clearly positioning themselves for a strong future with Booker at the helm.
