Eric Bledsoe, who just had a breakout season with the Phoenix Suns after averaging 17.7 points, 4.7 rebounds, 5.5 assists and 1.6 steals per game, is on the verge to stardom. But with all his talent and potential, the quick and explosive guard surprisingly received zero offers from other teams this summer during the 2014 National Basketball Association free agency season. It has been reported that the reason was because his own team had somewhat maneuvered anyone interested with the NBA player to not put out any offers attractive to Bledsoe.
Chris Haynes of Comcast SportsNet revealed that because of the purported market tactic, the relationship between Bledsoe and the Suns had began to sour and has reached to the point of being "irreparable":
"Phoenix has made it known publicly and repeatedly that they intend to match any offer sheets competitors issue out to Bledsoe. This tactic has succeeded in scaring away any potential suitors so far. However, the effort by the Suns to undermine Bledsoe's market is what has angered Bledsoe and his reps and led to a standoff in which the relationship is now on the verge of being irreparable, we're told," Haynes had said.
HoopsHype for USA Today cited recent reports suggested that Bledsoe and his camp are seeking a 5 year, $80 million contract from the Suns, which is the possible maximum amount of money and years that they can offer him. The Suns, however, only offered Bledsoe a four-year contract at $48 million, of which he purportedly declined. With both sides unwilling to yield in their stand, no official agreement was ever reached. Insiders have claimed that the standoff could escalated to the point where "relationship is on the express lane to being ruined."
On the other hand, Basketballinsiders.com sources are saying that there is an ongoing dialogue between Bledsoe and the Suns to reach a comfortable deal for both parties. Sources also said that their is a possibility that both sides will agree on a short-term deal that will allow Bledsoe to become a free agent within the next three seasons.
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