Possible Contention and Increased Playing Time Sold Hunter

Steven Hunter turned down a $720,000 contract from Atlanta only to take the same contract with the Suns.

“I'm very excited because this team has the potential to go deep in the playoffs." Hunter said.

Hunter started 23 games with the Magic last season and averaged 4.44 blocks per 48 minutes.

Via Arizona Central

Phoenix Suns

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Hunter Likes the Fit in Phoenix

Why did Steven Hunter sign with Phoenix instead of Atlanta, which was offering him the same money?

Hunter was attracted by the Suns' bright future. "There are going to be people at our games and we'll be winning," said Hunter. "Losing in the NBA isn't fun.

"I'm very excited because this team has the potential to go deep in the playoffs."

Also, he wanted to play with Quentin Richardson. "That was pretty much the icing on the cake," Hunter said. "Quentin is definitely a winner and a warrior who I'd love to play with."

Hunter can run the floor and block shots and the center position is there for the taking if he performs.

"I've made a lot of strides," Hunter said. "My first three years in the league supplied me with a lot of knowledge. The Phoenix Suns got a better player than was with the Orlando Magic."

Via The Arizona Republic

Phoenix Suns

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Suns sign Hunter

The Suns signed free agent Steven Hunter today.

“Steven Hunter’s athleticism, shot blocking and rebounding ability give us an added dimension to address the need in the middle,” said Suns President and General Manager Bryan Colangelo.

Hunter averaged 3.2 points per game and 2.9 rebounds per game last season for the Magic.

'Hunter, 22, was acquired by the Cleveland Cavaliers on July 23, 2004 from the Magic along with Drew Gooden and the draft rights to Anderson Varejao for Tony Battie and two future second-round picks. Cleveland later waived him on August 10.'

'Originally selected in the first round (15th overall) of the 2001 NBA Draft by Orlando, Hunter played two seasons at DePaul University, including the 1999-00 campaign with fellow Suns guard Quentin Richardson. The early entry candidate finished third in school history in blocked shots (128) and field goal percentage (.586).'

Via NBA.com

Phoenix Suns, Orlando Magic, Cleveland Cavaliers

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