Report: Suns converting Mike James' two-way deal into regular contract

The Phoenix Suns are reportedly preparing to convert the two-way contract of point guard Mike James into a regular contract, according to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski.

James has played in all 26 games for the Suns, starting 10. In just under 22 minutes a night, the 27-year-old has averaged 10.5 points, four assists, and 2.9 rebounds.

The pending decision is largely tied to collective bargaining agreement minutia. Two-way players can only appear on their NBA team's roster for 45 days, so the Suns are effectively forced to choose between converting James' contract or relegating him to their G-league affiliate. As two-way players do not count against a team's 15 roster spots, the Suns must now free up a spot for James by either waiving or trading a player.

As a pivotal member of Jay Triano's backcourt rotation, it has become increasingly evident just how valued the EuroLeague journeyman has become in Phoenix.