Suns forward Amare Stoudemire can become a free agent after the season, but his status hasn't been a distraction.

Phoenix has won more games than expected, which has helped quell speculation about his future.

"It's been great, because it keeps us focused on what we're doing on the basketball court and ultimately winning basketball games," Stoudemire said. "There are no distractions right now. We've got to keep it that way."

The Suns can also extend Stoudemire's contract if he doesn't exercise his option for next season.

"He's matured so much over the summer," coach Alvin Gentry said. "He and I have had a lot of conversations. I've had to learn how to text.

"Everybody forgets he's 27 years old. He's made a good leap. He's a hell of a teammate now. He was always a good teammate. The responsibility and leadership he's tried to put together has been good. He understands he needs to concentrate on playing and having a good year, and then all of that stuff will work itself out."