With the NBA trade deadline less than a day away, there’s been no shortage of news surrounding the Phoenix Suns. Multiple reports indicate they have several targets and that they may be open to trading some key players. As the drama unfolds, here are some potential moves.
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Phoenix Suns Potential Trade Deadline Moves
Chris Paul Not Part of the Suns’ Future
Chris Paul’s age and regressing performance are leading many to believe the Suns may trade him before the deadline. Averaging a career-low 13.6 PPG along with 8.7 APG and 4.3 RPG, the point guard has also been dealing with multiple injuries, which have kept him sidelined for 21 games already.
Although Phoenix may wait until the offseason to make a move. According to Eric Pinus of Bleacher Report, “the team is expected to make more significant changes after the season, but sources say the team has come to terms with the likelihood that Paul is starting to decline (38 years old in May). Even if he can bring it for another postseason, the Suns need to find a long-term replacement.”
Still, a trade on Thursday shouldn’t be ruled out. Phoenix already offered him Jae Crowder and picks for Kyrie Irving, though the Brooklyn Nets accepted the Dallas Mavericks’ package. Regardless, they should look to move Paul to get some help, for Devin Booker is in his prime. They already reportedly have their sights set on Fred VanVleet, OG Anunoby, Eric Gordon, Terry Rozier, and Immanuel Quickley.
Jae Crowder Likely to be Traded
Crowder may only be on the sidelines for one more day. He requested a trade in the offseason, reportedly due to a failed contract extension negotiation and losing his starting spot to Cameron Johnson.
Last week Phoenix gave the Milwaukee Bucks permission to meet with the forward. Per Shams Charania, they offered Serge Ibaka, George Hill, Jordan Nwora, and a second-round draft pick, which the Suns declined. The Bucks are reportedly interested in attaining a wing player at the deadline, so they’ll likely propose a counteroffer or get a third team involved. Milwaukee is reportedly the frontrunner to land him, but the Miami Heat, Atlanta Hawks, and Portland Trail Blazers are also in the mix.
The Suns only lose if they don’t trade Crowder. If he doesn’t get moved, he will continue to sit on the bench, but if they trade him, they can get a solid haul to help with their depth.
Deandre Ayton Drawing Interest
Deandre Ayton has been popping up in possible deals for Kevin Durant since the Irving trade on Sunday. Durant’s been on Phoenix’s radar for quite some time now, and it’s likely they’ll make an offer. It’s important to note that Ayton has trade veto power since the Suns matched his offer sheet in the offseason.
The Mavericks also might not be done making big moves and are said to be interested in the big man. Christian Wood and Tim Hardaway Jr. have reportedly been mentioned as a package. The Toronto Raptors are also potential suitors, and they came close to acquiring him last offseason in a sign-and-trade. They certainly have the assets to pull it off, as they have some key pieces who can make teams into contenders.
The Last Word on the Phoenix Suns Potential Trade Deadline Moves
Phoenix is expected to be very active at the deadline as they look to make some much-needed adjustments to the roster. The most pressing concern at the moment is their future. Their opportunity to win a ring with Paul has closed, and they need to revamp the team.
