Kings: 4 Potential free agent targets with ties to Mike Brown
By Logan Struck
2. Damion Lee
Another relationship Mike Brown built while in Golden State, guard Damion Lee. The current Phoenix Suns player averaged 8.2 points and 3.0 rebounds per game, shooting 44.5% from three and 90.4% from the free throw line. Lee is a great role player who has stepped up big for both the Warriors and Suns.
Damion Lee, entering unrestricted free agency, is unlikely to return to Phoenix with a new coaching staff and would fit in as a King. The 30-year-old is entering his 7th NBA season and won the 2022 NBA championship with the Warriors. It never hurts to have some championship experience on the roster, especially with a player like Lee, who can come in and contribute.
Mike Brown and Damion Lee have shown their connection in interviews and YouTube videos together. They have a common respect for each other, as Mike Brown infamously played Lee 24 minutes in a crucial playoff game in 2022 when he took over as head coach in Steve Kerr’s absence.
Damion Lee has praised Mike Brown, especially during their 2022 playoff run with the Warriors (via LetsGoWarriors):
"“Mike Brown is a great defensive coach. He is open and honest. I think what makes Mike so great… is that he’s so detail-oriented.”"
Damion Lee is an impressive three-point shooter, and his connection with Mike Brown would help fit him into the Kings’ lineup. While his defense is not great, he is familiar with Brown’s scheme and could contribute immediately.