Louis Amundson: Fan Favorite, But Time to Say Good-Bye

There will no longer be bicycle rides to US Airways Center, or fans screaming his name after an exciting play. What most Suns' fans don't want to hear: It is now time for Louis Amundson to move on and find a new place to call home.

Quickly becoming a fan favorite before most people could correctly pronounce his last name, Amundson was a top signing priority over the offseason for some fans, over the likes of All-Star Amar'e Stoudemire and another bench stand-out in Channing Frye. He was so high on the fans' list because of what he brought coming off the bench.

His hustle night after night defined him as a player.

The only problem, he was a huge offensive liability.

As much as he brought to the table defensively, there are players on the Suns ready to take over his position. Even after the best season of his career, the money wasn't there to entice Amundson to return. Instead money was spent on the re-signing of Channing Frye, and acquisitions of Hakim Warrick, Hedo Turkoglu, and Ganai Lawal.

He will be on the radar of many sub-par teams looking to rebuild around a young core. Other teams will be able to offer him a three or four year well-deserved contract—something the Suns couldn't do. Teams interested in his play are the Warriors, Raptors, and Bobcats, and with all teams he could serve a larger role off the bench.

Most Suns fans will argue that the team is better with Lou, but the team can improve.

Although, he was a stand-out rebounder and shot blocker, that was all he offered. With no low post offense, a terrible jump shot, and an even worse free throw percentage, it was hard not hoping and praying he'd pass the ball every time he held possession. The potential is there, but the Suns have three more players willing and ready.

Warrick, Lawal, and Earl Clark will be waiting for the opportunity to take over Lou's role. Each having the possibility of doing better on both sides of the court.

Truthfully, Lou's hustle and ability to get under opposing players' skin will be missed. On the other hand, the Suns fans should be very optimistic that any three players mentioned above can provide everything and more that Lou offered the team last season.

Get in your "LLLLLOOOOUUUUU!!!" chants while you can. The only time you'll see him next season is on the TV for a less-talented team than the Suns.