The Big Meal played a solid season when looking back
Welcome to our Phoenix Suns Season in Review series, where we take a closer look at each player who suited up during the 2024–25 campaign. One by one, we’ll break down what went right, what went wrong, and what each player can do to take the next step heading into next season.
Where do I begin describing Royce O’Neale’s season?
He was brought in last season, and in the short run, he was not as impactful as fans had thought. This season, he wanted to change that narrative for the team. O’Neale suited up in most of the team’s games this season, playing in 75 of them. This gave the fans and front office the identity of Royce and what he could contribute to this squad.
Regardless of whether it was his much-needed defense the team lacked as a whole, or his three-point shot to help win games, he came through for the Suns in clutch scenarios. There were also times when his shots would not fall after multiple attempts. Sometimes he would get blown by on the defensive end. Those instances left fans questioning how valuable he truly is to the team.
Even with his nights not playing up to standards, overall, he was solid for the team. He was depended on more nights than expected, as well, with the injuries the team endured. This leaves me to believe that in his role, Royce was what the team needed, even if he was not there every night.
Royce O’Neale
- Position: Small Forward/ Power Forward
- Vitals: 6’4”, 226 pounds, 31 years old
- Experience: 7 years
- Stats: 75 GP, 9.1 PPG, (42.3 FG%, 40.6 3FG%, 73.1FT%), 4.7 RPG, 2.2 APG, 0.5 BPG, 0.9 SPG
Contract Details
In free agency last summer, Royce O’Neale resigned in Phoenix on a four-year, $42 million contract. This contract scales up, with Royce making just over $10 million this season. The Suns still have him under contract for three remaining seasons.
Free agent F Royce O’Neale intends to sign a new four-year, $44 million deal to return to the Phoenix Suns, sources tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/NaBcMJyiuV
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 29, 2024
Regular Season Recap
O’Neale started slow for the Suns offensively but made a key impact, notching his first 20+ point game in the Suns’ fifth game vs. the Los Angeles Clippers. O’Neale would see quality minutes in this Suns rotation throughout the first half of the season, and in December, he got hot for the team. In six straight games, O’Neale notched double-digit points. Most notably, he shot over 50% from the field in five of six contests.
On February 20th vs the San Antonio Spurs, O’Neale got a season high 27 points on 62.5% and 50% shooting percentages from the field and three. Alongside a great shooting night, he had six boards and three steals.
Unfortunately, the Suns lost this game, but it showed that Royce could help when they needed him most. Royce would only have one more night this season where he eclipsed twenty points. With the Suns struggling late and trying to find answers, his numbers decreased a bit towards season’s end.
Overall, though, he had a consistent role in the rotation this season.
Biggest Strength
When looking at Royce, I’d say his biggest strength, especially this season, was his defense. The versatility of O’Neale on that side of the ball was key for the Suns. This year, the team ranked 27th in the league. That is not great, and Royce helped to make it not the worst.
With the questionable rotations this year and Royce being a constant, the team had someone to apply defensive pressure.
Also, Royce can play both the small forward and power forward positions. This allows the Suns to run lineups with him alongside Durant to add some more wing pressure and shooting. It also gives them the option to play him at the power forward for Durant, and adds more shooting to the lineup by plugging in Grayson Allen and Ryan Dunn.
With the Suns’ struggling defense, he gave them a solid defender for most lineups.
Biggest Weakness
Looking for a weakness for Royce is a bit difficult, but I’d say it is his ability to create a shot for himself. When analyzing his offensive game, he is mainly just on the perimeter looking for a shot. He does not move very much off the ball and is someone whose role is clear. To help offensively when needed, and to be a defensive workhorse. It is not his role to take over since the Suns have three guys who predominantly handle the ball, but that would be my knack on Royce.
Likelihood of Return: 8
The Phoenix Suns being in the second apron and trying to get out of it may cost Royce his job here. With the team needing changes and addressing, they are coming; anyone is on the table at this point. Even with all that, though, the Suns made it clear at their end-of-the-season press conference that they want to focus on defense. O’Neale is known for that and was one of the best defenders on a team depleted of them. This makes me think he is more likely to stay over others as they need his role.
https://t.co/ubnMW1LAjw pic.twitter.com/v3SaKmds6a
— Bobby Marks (@BobbyMarks42) March 14, 2025
The only question is, if they can get his role via a Kevin Durant trade, what does that mean for Royce? His contract is once again affordable and easier to move. Could the Suns also see his age at 31 and say they would like to compete, but also get younger? Who knows with this front office, but if it were up to me, Royce O’Neale would be on this Suns roster next season.
Overall Grade: B+
Like I said above, I am a huge believer in Royce O’Neale. He brings defensive versatility, something the team lacks. While also having him locked up long term on a contract, he should be staying in Phoenix. At the price the Suns are paying him, roughly $10 million a year, it is perfect for both parties.
Is he the best role player? No, but he can consistently show up for a team who will see changes. The rotation does not need a complete overhaul and keeping some consistent players is key, if they want to retool and still compete.
Even with his streaky shooting at times, O’Neale is still a quality player on a quality deal. His shooting numbers are up from last year, and I feel that in a more established role with the right coach, he could thrive alongside Devin Booker and this team.
He is not a mountain mover, so I can see why some fans could see moving off of him, but I truly think he is solid enough to compete on a high-caliber playoff team. That is truly what every fan wants, and I believe he could hold his own when that time comes.
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