Report: Goran Dragic to have 'open' free agency; Rockets, Lakers to pursue

Recent multiyear deals for guards Eric Bledsoe and Isaiah Thomas weren't intended to mark the end of Goran Dragic's run as a member of the Phoenix Suns. 

Dragic is thought to be a part of the team's long-term plans - a key element in coach Jeff Hornacek's multiguard attack. 

After signing Bledsoe to a five-year, $70-million contract and Thomas to a four-year, $27-million deal in the offseason, general manager Ryan McDonough said there is plenty of money left for Dragic, who is expected to decline his 2015-16 player option and become an unrestricted free agent this summer.

Dragic said publicly in September that he'll opt out with the intention of signing a new deal in Phoenix, but that may no longer be the case, as Sean Deveney of Sporting News reports that Dragic will have an open free agency this summer.

That makes perfect sense, as Dragic has earned the right to determine his market value. The Suns will still hold an edge with his Bird rights, but there will be no shortage of high-profile suitors, according to Deveney.

Among them will reportedly be the Houston Rockets, with whom Dragic played parts of two seasons between Phoenix stints, and the Los Angeles Lakers, who are expected to be in the mix for any number of free agents.

Based on early returns, Dragic's value may be depressing this season, as his numbers have taken a hit as the team adjusts to its guard-heavy rotation. Still, Dragic proved last season that he can be a team's lead guard, averaging 20.3 points and 5.9 assists over 76 games.