Channing Frye opts out of deal with Suns

Channing Frye has officially opted out of the final year of his contract with the Suns. He was set to make $6.8 million next season, but chose to test the free agency market instead. The Suns big-man started in all 82 games this year, after missing the entire 2012-13 season with a heart condition. Frye, a Phoenix-native, is a fan-favorite to the hometown faithful, especially after playing his college ball at the University of Arizona in Tucson.

It has been rumored that the Suns will go after the center upon reaching free agency, to try to bring him back. However, the Suns won’t be alone in trying to acquire Frye. At age-31, Frye is looking for a long-term deal. It has been rumored that Golden State and Cleveland could be possible fits for him next season.

Frye is a valuable piece because of his ability to stretch out defenses with his sharpshooting from beyond the 3-point line. Along with his offensive capabilities, Frye is a solid defender. He averaged 11.1 points, and 5.1 rebounds per game with the Suns this past season.