The New York Knicks‘ roster has become a refuge for former Phoenix Suns players. Five former Suns now call the Knicks their home, leading Suns fans to wonder if their loyalty should shift eastward. With several key Suns players joining New York’s ranks, the orange and blue may start to feel a lot more familiar to Phoenix fans.
The Knicks Are Infested with Former Suns Players
Mikal Bridges: From Arizona to Knicks ‘Nova Reunion
Mikal Bridges, a key figure in the Phoenix Suns’ success, now plays for the New York Knicks. Bridges played for the Suns from 2018 to 2023. Known for his defensive prowess and infectious energy, Bridges quickly became a fan favorite in Phoenix. He was a vital part of the Suns’ 2021 run to the NBA Finals. However, in a blockbuster trade for Kevin Durant, Bridges was sent to the Brooklyn Nets. After a brief stint in Brooklyn, he now finds himself starting for the Knicks, reuniting with former Villanova teammates who helped win NCAA titles in 2016 and 2018.
Keita Bates-Diop: A Short Phoenix Stint
Keita Bates-Diop signed with the Suns in 2023 free agency but had a short stay. Initially seen as a potential X-factor, Bates-Diop’s time in Phoenix did not live up to expectations. He averaged just 4.5 points and 2.6 rebounds over 39 games. Traded to the Brooklyn Nets at the 2024 trade deadline, Bates-Diop eventually found his way to New York. Though his time with the Suns was brief, he now joins other former Suns players in rebuilding his career with the Knicks.
Cameron Payne: Bringing Grit to New York
Cameron Payne, a player known for his spark off the bench, spent the most significant portion of his career with the Phoenix Suns. He revitalized his career in Phoenix, becoming a critical part of the Suns’ bench unit during their 2021 playoff run. Traded to the San Antonio Spurs and later waived, Payne eventually signed with the Knicks in July. His energy, pregame antics, and gritty play made him a fan favorite in Phoenix. Knicks fans will hope he brings the same passion to New York.
Landry Shamet: Searching for Consistency
Landry Shamet came to Phoenix in 2021 with high hopes, known for his three-point shooting. However, his inconsistency in Phoenix made him a frustrating player to watch. Despite decent shooting numbers on paper, his performance often fell flat in key moments. In 2023, Shamet was traded as part of the deal that brought Bradley Beal to Phoenix. After a brief stint with the Washington Wizards, Shamet was waived and eventually signed by the Knicks. Shamet’s role in New York remains to be seen, but he will be looking for a fresh start after a rocky time in Phoenix.
Marcus Morris: Returning to the Big Apple
Marcus Morris, who last played for the Phoenix Suns in 2015, has also returned to New York. Morris played for Phoenix from 2012 to 2015, where he had a tumultuous relationship with the franchise. His time in Phoenix was marked by clashes with coaches, off-court issues, and a reputation for being difficult to manage. However, his undeniable talent kept him in the league, and he enjoyed a career-best season in New York in 2019-20, averaging 19.6 points per game. Morris signed a one-year deal with the Knicks, marking his return to the team where he once thrived.
Will Suns Fans Root for the Knicks?
With five former Suns players now donning Knicks jerseys, some Phoenix fans may find themselves cheering for New York. Bridges, Payne, and others have left lasting impressions in Phoenix. Their success in New York could tempt some Suns fans to adopt the Knicks as their Eastern Conference team.
The Suns-to-Knicks pipeline reflects the ever-changing nature of the NBA, where player movement is constant, and loyalties are often tested. As these former Suns look to make their mark in New York, Phoenix fans may keep a close eye on their progress. Whether the Knicks can turn their Suns connections into success remains to be seen, but for now, New York is feeling the impact of Phoenix’s past players.
