Fade to Orange

This just in from the Fade to Orange news desk, Eric Dampier is in Phoenix today to meet with the Suns front office to discuss the possibility of the free agent signing with the Suns.

Paul Coro of the Arizona Republic reported earlier today that Dampier is considering the Phoenix Suns along with the Bulls, Rockets and Raptors as options to sign with for the 2010-2011 season.

The Suns are in need of another true center to back up Robin Lopez and Dampier has the experience and ability to be a great back up center. Dampier, 35, is 6-foot-11, 265-pounds and played last season with the Mavericks, averaging 6 points, 7.3 rebounds and 1.4 blocks before being traded to Charlotte for Tyson Chandler. He would be the defensive shot blocker and rebounder that the Suns desperately need right now.

The Suns are only able to offer their biennial exception of about $2.08 million and while it could just be smoke, it does sound like Dampier has some genuine interest in playing for the Suns. “Phoenix is a really good team,” said Dan Fegan, Dampier’s agent. “He had a great year last year. The Suns lost a big man and need another big man. It’s a great team and a great place to live.”

While I do ultimately think this would be a smart move for the Suns, especially given Lopez being prone to injury, part of me can’t help but think of the last time the Suns acquired a very large big man, the not so great “Shaqtus”, and we all know how that turned out.

Let us know what you think in the comments on this possible signing.