The Decline of the Phoenix Suns
The Phoenix Suns aimed to create a “Big Three,” yet their performance has deteriorated significantly since then.
During the 2021-22 NBA season, the Suns emerged as serious title contenders, achieving a remarkable 64-18 record that secured them the top seed in the Western Conference. Although they fell to the Dallas Mavericks in the Conference semifinals after a hard-fought seven-game series, they were viewed as a more formidable team than the one that reached the NBA Finals the previous year, where their 51-21 record was only good for second seed due to the pandemic-shortened season.
However, everything changed at the February 2022 trade deadline when the Suns traded for Kevin Durant. Since then, they have struggled to remain competitive.
It’s important to note that Durant’s presence isn’t the reason behind their decline. In his 18th NBA season, he’s performing at an elite level, averaging 26.4 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game, solidifying his Hall-of-Fame legacy. The issue lies with the surrounding roster, which lacks the necessary assets for upgrades and revitalization. The Suns have minimal young talent, draft picks, or financial flexibility, leaving them in a challenging situation.
While acquiring Durant depleted their resources, the subsequent deal for Bradley Beal drained them completely. Unlike Durant, Beal has not had a successful latter portion of his career, and the anticipated “Big Three” has never materialized. The two trades, particularly the one for Beal, have left the Suns with a limited number of draft picks, one of the weakest asset portfolios in the league, no available salary cap space, and a disappointing 32-37 record that may not even secure a play-in spot.
Given their current state, changes must occur. Another season filled with stagnation would be counterproductive. Inside the league, there is a strong belief—supported by rampant trade rumors—that Durant may be moved. However, what if the focus shifted instead to possibly trading Devin Booker?
This idea was sparked by Duane Rankin of the Arizona Republic, who speculated on the returns a Booker trade could yield. According to Rankin, moving Booker might net the Suns four first-round picks, helping to replenish their depleted resources, albeit at the expense of one of the league’s talented guards. It’s crucial to note that Rankin did not claim that a Booker trade was imminent or advisable; he merely examined hypothetical outcomes. Owner Mat Ishbia has insisted that such a trade will “never happen”, but NBA team owners aren’t always predictable in their statements.
