The Spurs have waived point guard Cameron Payne, the team announced in a press release.
This past offseason, Payne was traded by the Suns to the Spurs along with a 2025 second-round pick and cash ($5.7 million) in exchange for a protected 2024 second-round pick. To note, if Payne is not claimed off the waiver wire, the Spurs will be responsible for paying his full $6.5 million contract for this year.
The Spurs, who are facing roster crunches, will look to focus on rebuilding with a depth chart full of young guards, and allowing the 29-year-old the chance to play for a contender. Assuming Payne clears waivers, there is said to be plenty of interest around the league.
Appearing in 48 games in 2022-23, as the Suns’ backup point guard, Payne averaged 10.3 points, 2.2 rebounds and 4.5 assists, shooting 41.5% from the field and 36.8% from 3-point range.
Certainly, Payne has shown the ability to step up in big moments, as he started the last four games of the Western Conference semifinals, scoring 31 points in his final game with Phoenix.
After the Oklahoma City Thunder selected Payne as the No. 14 overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft, he went on to play in Chicago, Cleveland, and Phoenix throughout his eight-year career.
With the next stop along the journey yet to be determined, Payne hopes to find a larger role on a contending team wherever he goes.
Despite stating publicly on an Instagram live video last month “I’d rather be in Phoenix still,” Payne will not be eligible to sign back with the Suns according to league rules.
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