The Phoenix Suns are in a bit of a pickle after a disappointing season that saw them swept in the first round of the playoffs. Despite Bradley Beal joining forces with Kevin Durant and Devin Booker, the team didn’t click as expected. Beal put up decent numbers, but the Suns struggled, especially on defense, which was a major issue in their playoff games.
Looking ahead, the Suns have some decisions to make this offseason. They’ve got a couple of first-round picks that could be used in trades to shake things up—specifically the No. 22 pick this year and another first-rounder in 2031. These could be key for adding some much-needed support to help Durant and Booker really make a run next season.
They’re also adjusting to a new head coach, Mike Budenholzer, who’s expected to bring some new strategies to the table. This could mean changes in how the team plays or in who’s playing. All in all, it’s a big offseason for the Suns as they look to bounce back and build a team that can do some damage in the playoffs next year.
1. Jonathan Isaac Gets His Big Chance
Potential Trade Offer For Jonathan Isaac: 2024 No. 22 overall pick, 2031 first-round pick, Jusuf Nurkic
Jonathan Isaac from the Orlando Magic could be a strategic acquisition for the Phoenix Suns, especially as they look to solidify their defense. Isaac has shown impressive defensive capabilities this season, with a defensive rating of 97.6, highlighting his impact in limited minutes. Despite averaging only 14.5 minutes over 32 games, Isaac has contributed significantly with 6.2 points, 4.0 rebounds, 1.2 blocks, and 0.8 steals per game. Given his progress post-injuries and his increasing role in critical game moments, Isaac’s potential on a defensively needing team like the Suns could be game-changing.
The proposed trade package includes Jusuf Nurkic, whose production hasn’t matched expectations, alongside the Suns’ No. 22 overall pick and a future first-round pick. This move could benefit both teams, giving the Suns a defensive anchor while allowing the Magic to rebuild with fresh assets and resolve the minute management complexities surrounding Isaac. This shift could provide Isaac with a more prominent role and the opportunity to fully utilize his defensive talents.
Adding Isaac to the Suns could significantly improve their strategic flexibility, especially on defense where his ability to guard multiple positions and disrupt plays makes him a valuable asset. Isaac’s transition to the Suns could also rejuvenate his career, providing him with a more stable and prominent role that could lead to increased productivity and impact. For the Suns, his defensive prowess would help address their most glaring issues, potentially transforming them into a more balanced and formidable team in the Western Conference.
2. Nikola Vucevic Makes The Suns A Bigger Offensive Threat
Potential Trade Offer For Nikola Vucevic: 2024 No. 22 overall pick, Jusuf Nurkic
Nikola Vucevic has been a consistent performer for the Chicago Bulls, especially in the 2023-2024 season, where he averaged 18.0 points and 10.5 rebounds per game across 76 games. His ability to shoot from the field at a .484 percentage and contribute 1.2 three-pointers per game on a .294 percentage makes him a valuable asset for any team looking to boost their offensive firepower. As the Bulls look towards rebuilding, especially with the potential departure of DeMar DeRozan in free agency and the rise of younger talents like Coby White, moving Vucevic could free up valuable resources and player development opportunities.
For the Phoenix Suns, acquiring Vucevic would provide a substantial boost in terms of scoring and rebounding. Vucevic’s skilled post-play and ability to stretch the floor with his shooting would complement Devin Booker and Kevin Durant, creating a more dynamic and versatile offensive lineup. This could be particularly beneficial for the Suns, who have struggled with interior scoring and rebounding consistency. Adding Vucevic would not only address these issues but also add a proven veteran presence that could help stabilize the Suns’ frontcourt rotations.
The potential trade, involving the Suns’ No. 22 overall pick and Jusuf Nurkic for Vucevic, makes sense for both teams. The Bulls would receive a fresh young talent from the draft and a versatile center in Nurkic, who could potentially thrive in a new system. For the Suns, Vucevic’s addition would signify a strong commitment to capitalizing on their current window of contention, aiming to deepen their playoff runs. This move would strategically bolster their roster, positioning them as a serious threat in the Western Conference.
3. Clint Capela Could Transform The Suns’ Interior Defense
Potential Trade Offer For Clint Capela: 2024 No. 22 overall pick, Jusuf Nurkic
Clint Capela could be the defensive powerhouse the Phoenix Suns need to balance their team. This past season with the Atlanta Hawks, Capela averaged 11.5 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game, showcasing his ability to dominate the paint. The Hawks, holding the No. 1 pick in the upcoming draft and seeing the rise of Onyeka Okongwu, might find Capela expendable as they look to rebuild around young talent.
For the Suns, trading Jusuf Nurkic and their No. 22 overall pick for Capela would be a strategic move to strengthen their interior defense and rebounding. Nurkic’s performance has been underwhelming, and Capela’s consistent rim protection and rebounding skills would be a significant upgrade. This trade would provide Phoenix with a reliable center who excels in pick-and-roll situations, complementing the playmaking abilities of Devin Booker and Kevin Durant.
Adding Capela would also allow the Suns to maintain a strong defensive presence in the paint, addressing one of their key weaknesses from the previous season. His ability to alter shots and secure rebounds would provide the team with the stability needed to compete at a higher level in the Western Conference. Overall, Capela’s presence would enhance the Suns’ defensive and offensive schemes, making them a more formidable contender in the playoffs.
4. Zach Collins Can Enhance Both Ends Of The Floor
Potential Trade Offer For Zach Collins: 2024 No. 22 overall pick, Jusuf Nurkic
Zach Collins could be an excellent addition to the Phoenix Suns, offering a blend of offensive versatility and defensive strength. In the past season with the San Antonio Spurs, Collins averaged 11.2 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game across 69 appearances, which included a career-high 29 starts. His ability to shoot from the perimeter and protect the rim makes him a valuable asset for any team looking to enhance its frontcourt presence.
The Spurs are currently in a rebuilding phase, making this a prime opportunity for them to acquire additional assets. With the team focusing on younger talents, the Spurs could benefit significantly from the No. 22 overall pick and the addition of Jusuf Nurkic. Nurkic, who has struggled to meet expectations with the Suns, might find a fresh start in San Antonio, where his skills could be better utilized behind rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama.
For the Suns, Collins’ versatility would be a strategic asset. His ability to play both power forward and center provides Phoenix with multiple lineup options, enhancing their flexibility on both ends of the court. Offensively, his shooting range can help spread the floor, creating more space for stars like Kevin Durant and Devin Booker to operate. Defensively, his shot-blocking and rebounding would address some of the Suns’ key weaknesses, providing a more balanced and formidable team overall.
Incorporating Collins into the Suns’ roster would not only bolster their defense but also improve their offensive dynamics. His recent performance indicates that he is ready for a more significant role, and Phoenix could be the perfect place for him to thrive. This trade would help the Suns aim for a deeper playoff run, making them a more competitive force in the Western Conference.
5. Adding Grit and Grind With Robert Williams
Potential Trade Offer For Robert Williams: 2024 No. 22 overall pick, Drew Eubanks, Josh Okogie
Robert Williams could significantly bolster the Phoenix Suns’ interior defense and rebounding capabilities. In the 2023-24 season with the Portland Trail Blazers, Williams averaged 6.8 points, 6.3 rebounds, 0.8 assists, and 1.2 blocks per game. His presence in the paint is formidable, making him an excellent rim protector and a reliable defensive anchor.
Williams’ performance has been consistent despite injury challenges. His ability to alter shots and secure rebounds is critical for a team looking to improve its defensive efficiency. The Blazers, currently in a rebuilding phase and holding the No. 7 pick in the draft, might be open to acquiring additional assets to support their young core. The inclusion of Drew Eubanks and Josh Okogie in the trade would provide Portland with experienced players who can contribute immediately while the No. 22 overall pick offers future potential.
For the Suns, Williams’ addition would address their need for a defensive specialist in the frontcourt. His ability to protect the rim and clean up the glass would complement the offensive firepower of Kevin Durant and Devin Booker. Moreover, Williams’ athleticism and shot-blocking prowess would significantly enhance the Suns’ defensive schemes, making them more competitive against high-scoring opponents in the Western Conference.
This trade would strategically benefit both teams. The Suns would gain a robust defender to balance their offense-heavy lineup, while the Blazers would receive valuable assets to continue their rebuilding process. Integrating Williams into the Suns’ rotation would likely improve their overall defensive metrics, positioning them as a more balanced and formidable contender for the upcoming season.
