Phoenix Suns Face Potential Roster Overhaul After Playoff Miss
Phoenix — The Phoenix Suns are bracing for a potentially tumultuous offseason following a disappointing 2024-25 season. The team finished with a 36-46 record, missing the playoffs for the first time in five years.
After beginning the season with the highest payroll in NBA history, the Suns are now expected to reverse course and consider trading key players. Kevin Durant,Bradley Beal,Grayson allen,and Royce O’Neale are among those who could be on the move.
Trade Winds Blowing: Durant’s Future in Question
Speculation is rampant regarding potential trades, especially involving Kevin Durant. However, the specific teams involved and the potential returns remain unclear.
Potential Trade Targets: What the Experts Are Saying
Greg Swartz of Bleacher Report has identified several “dream” trade targets for the Suns this offseason. Swartz suggests a bold move involving Bradley Beal.
Before the Phoenix Suns trade Kevin Durant this summer, the franchise should make a call to the 76ers and see if they’d agree to a Bradley Beal-George swap. Both contracts are atrocious, even though George would make for a far better fit than Beal on a Suns team between Devin Booker and Durant.
Greg swartz, bleacher Report
Swartz also highlights the importance of acquiring young, versatile players if a durant trade becomes unavoidable.
If Philly says no and a Durant trade is inevitable, the Suns should be eyeing young forwards with two-way upside on long-term contracts.
Greg Swartz, Bleacher Report
Specifically, Swartz mentions Jaden McDaniels and Jabari Smith Jr. as potential targets.
McDaniels, 24, is one of the NBA’s premier wing defenders who’s under contract for the next four seasons at around 15 percent of the projected cap. Smith, 22, can be extended this summer and should be a must-have for the Suns if durant is traded to Houston.
Greg Swartz, Bleacher Report
Analyzing the Options: George, McDaniels, and Smith
While acquiring Paul George could be intriguing, his contract, which runs through 2028, is considered one of the least favorable in the league, similar to Beal’s. A trade with the 76ers seems unlikely.
McDaniels and Smith align with the type of players the Suns would likely target in a Durant trade, focusing on long-term potential and defensive capabilities.
Uncertain Future: Awaiting the Suns’ Next Move
The Suns have multiple avenues to explore in retooling their roster for the upcoming season. however, their ultimate course of action remains a mystery.