The Suns came through with a clutch 109-105 win over the Lakers, but it wasn’t easy. Devin Booker and Kevin Durant stepped up in a big way, dropping 33 and 30 points, respectively, to secure the victory. After trailing big early—thanks to a 26-10 Lakers run in the first quarter—the Suns clawed their way back by halftime and held on through a gritty fourth.
While Booker and Durant handled business, Jusuf Nurkic’s fit in the lineup remains a concern. With him on the floor, the Suns’ net rating tanks to a negative, while it skyrockets to +23.3 when he’s off. It’s starting to look like the Suns might need to explore trades to find a big who complements their dynamic duo a little better.
A New Defensive Anchor In Mark Williams Could Transform The Suns
Suns receive: Mark Williams, Grant Williams
Hornets receive: Jusuf Nurkic
Jusuf Nurkic’s time with the Suns is off to a rocky start, with his production fluctuating in the opening games of the season. In his latest showing against the Lakers, Nurkic struggled, putting up just 2 points and 4 rebounds in 15 minutes of play. So far this season, he’s averaging 8.8 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game—respectable but not exactly the game-changing numbers the Suns need in the center position. While he had a strong game against the Mavericks, where he posted 18 points and 14 rebounds, his impact has generally been inconsistent, which is raising questions about his fit with the Suns’ fast-paced, perimeter-focused system.
On the other hand, Mark Williams, though currently sidelined with a left foot tendon strain, could offer the Suns a more versatile defensive presence once healthy. Last season, Williams showed potential, averaging 12.7 points and 9.7 rebounds before injuries cut his season short. With great shot-blocking perks and mobility, Williams could be a significant upgrade in rim protection and help reduce the defensive burden on Phoenix’s perimeter players.
Adding Grant Williams as part of the package sweetens the deal even further. His reliable three-point shooting (40% in three games so far) and defensive versatility could help the Suns spread the floor more effectively, giving Durant and Booker more room to operate. For the Hornets, Nurkic would bring veteran experience and a physical presence in the post, filling a leadership role for their young core while providing solid rebounding and passing out of the center position, as the young team might be ready to start pushing for a Play-In spot again with a healthy LaMelo Ball.
Bringing Defensive Grit With Steven Adams And Tari Eason
Suns receive: Steven Adams, Tari Eason
Rockets receive: Jusuf Nurkic, 2026 Second-Round Pick (Nuggets)
Adding Steven Adams and Tari Eason could give the Suns the defensive intensity they’re currently lacking. Adams, a physical presence with rebounding ability, is averaging 6.0 points and 3.0 rebounds per game in limited minutes with the Rockets this season. He just played in one game out of four for the Rockets, so he’s clearly not a priority. Still, Adam’s impact goes beyond the box score; he’s a strong screen-setter and enforcer in the paint, qualities that the Suns could leverage to protect the rim and create easier scoring opportunities for their stars like Durant and Booker. Adams’ experience and toughness would make him a stabilizing force on the defensive end, something the Suns could definitely use to balance their offensive firepower.
Tari Eason would bring a lot of energy and hustle. He’s currently putting up 6.8 points and 3.5 rebounds per game, along with 2.3 steals in his third year. Eason’s ability to guard multiple positions and disrupt plays fits perfectly alongside rookie Ryan Dunn, forming a dynamic defensive duo with switchability. His athleticism and length allow him to contest shots, snag steals, and disrupt passing lanes, making him a defensive asset that could elevate the Suns’ frontcourt presence. Adding up, the Rockets also have Cam Whitmore vying for minutes, so Eason could also see the door in a potential trade to make up space for their younger wing.
For the Rockets, Jusuf Nurkic would bring experience and a more polished offensive game compared to Adams. Although inconsistent with the Suns, Nurkic has shown he can contribute in the paint with solid scoring and rebounding. His veteran presence would be valuable for a young Rockets squad still finding its identity, as he could mentor and be a great backup for Alperen Sengun.
Boosting The Spacing With Kelly Olynyk
Suns receive: Kelly Olynyk, Ochai Agbaji
Raptors receive: Jusuf Nurkic
This trade could be a subtle but impactful move for the Suns, adding Kelly Olynyk’s shooting and Ochai Agbaji’s youthful energy. Olynyk, a seasoned stretch big, has been a consistent shooter from beyond the arc and would bring valuable floor spacing. Currently, he’s averaging 9.8 points and 5.3 rebounds per game while shooting efficiently from three, making him a great fit next to stars like Durant and Booker. Olynyk’s versatility to play both the four and five gives the Suns flexibility in rotations, allowing them to adapt to various matchups.
Ochai Agbaji, a young and athletic guard, would infuse some fresh legs into the Suns’ rotation. Known for his defensive potential and three-point shooting, Agbaji is on 12.3 points per game this season, showing glimpses of his long-range ability (45.5% on 3 attempts per game). Adding him into the mix could give the Suns a boost in perimeter defense and provide extra shooting off the bench, which is essential for a team looking to make a deep playoff run.
For the Raptors, acquiring Jusuf Nurkic would solidify their center position with a seasoned veteran who can score in the post and rebound effectively. Nurkic provides the Raptors with a strong interior presence, which could complement their versatile forwards and guards.
