According to ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith, Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker may have interest in joining the New York Knicks.
Devin Booker reportedly wants to join the Knicks, per @stephenasmith
“[Devin Booker] might deny it, I haven’t spoken to him. I’m just telling you the scuttlebutt in the NBA circles is that brother wanna be in New York.”
– Stephen A. Smith 👀pic.twitter.com/PR8KYqOovj
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) April 29, 2024
Smith’s comments come less than a day after Phoenix’s sweep at the hands of the Minnesota Timberwolves. In the four-game series, Booker averaged 27.5 points, 6 assists, and 1.8 steals per game. Additionally, he shot 49.2% from the field and 35% from behind the three-point line.
Since joining the league in 2015, Booker has spent his entire career with Phoenix. Throughout his tenure, Booker is a four-time NBA All-Star and has been selected to one All-NBA Team. The Kentucky alum is under contract through the 2027-28 season.
Stephen A. Smith Links All-Star Guard to New York Knicks
How Devin Booker Could Fit With the Knicks
Booker has established himself as one of the league’s best scorers. Pairing him next to fellow All-Star guard Jalen Brunson would create one of the best offensive backcourts in the NBA. Furthermore, the Knicks are in a much better position in the long run than the Suns are. While Minnesota has already sent Phoenix home, the Knicks are just one win away from advancing to the second round of the playoffs. Additionally, at 27 years old, Booker fits New York’s timeline. He can help them contend immediately and remain with the team for many years.
Will the Suns Trade Devin Booker?
After the team’s disappointing season, many reports are suggesting a shakeup in Phoenix. The Athletic’s Shams Charania suggests the team may move on from head coach Frank Vogel after one year.
“But the buck stops at the head coach, and for the second offseason in a row, sources briefed on the situation told The Athletic that Phoenix will take a hard look at making a full coaching change or, at the very least, discuss adjustments to Vogel’s staff.”
Additionally, Charania is also reporting Kevin Durant “never felt comfortable” with his role under Vogel.
“Those sources said Durant had persistent issues with the offense, feeling that he was being relegated to the corner far too often and not having the proper designs to play to his strengths as the offense was built around pick-and-rolls. At the same time, some teammates and people close to the organization believed Durant needed to voice his concerns more adamantly and directly with Vogel and his coaching staff.”
If these reports are true, it seems more likely the Suns will move on from Vogel. Currently, it is unknown if Booker actually could be on the move. However, barring an official trade request, it seems unlikely. Booker has grown into one of the league’s best guards with the Suns and is still young. Additionally, the team has him under contract for multiple seasons. Regardless, it will be worth monitoring the Suns this offseason.
