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Forbes
2 hours ago
- Sport
- Forbes
The Phoenix Suns Enter 2025-2026 With Loads Of Roster Questions
PHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 09: Devin Booker #1 of the Phoenix Suns handles the ball during the second ... More half of the NBA game against the Oklahoma City Thunder at PHX Arena on April 09, 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by) As the Phoenix Suns have shaped their roster for the 2025-2026 season, questions linger about what exactly they're trying to achieve this year. Overabundance of wings As currently constructed, the five biggest earners on the team are either shooting guards or small forwards. Both positions often fall under the term wing, meaning that wings make up for over $134.8 million in salary, which is just under $20 million short of what the salary cap is ($154.6 million). Those five players (Devin Booker, Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, Grayson Allen, and Royce O'Neale) are all 6'6 and under, meaning the Suns - again - will be short, and enormously reliant on perimeter production to win games. (It's also worth noting the above grouping is just of the most expensive players. The organization has even more wings further down on the roster.) Green, who was acquired in the Kevin Durant trade, has projected as a wonky fit next to Booker since the day the trade went down. Rumors persisted for weeks that Phoenix would flip the 23-year-old for something else, but nothing materialized. That doesn't mean the Suns are necessarily committed to Green for the long haul. Green, who signed a three-year extension with Houston, negotiated a player option for the third season, meaning Phoenix might not have oodles of time to figure out that situation. Green seems like he could be solid trade deadline fodder, especially if he plays well enough to justify the price tag of his $33.5 million salary this season. If a team out there is in need of offense, particularly from the off-guard spot, and find Green interesting due to his youth, and explosive scoring (20.1 points for his career), then Phoenix should certainly be listening. Odd roster balance Due to the aforementioned overabundance of wings, it goes without saying that the rest of the roster is off-balanced. The team doesn't have a high-quality point guard at their disposal, or at least anyone who's significantly tested, which makes for an odd fit given that the Suns seemingly are still trying to compete. They do carry three centers, Khaman Maluach, Nick Richards, and Mark Williams, all of whom are actually quite decent. At this stage, it appears as if the Suns are putting a substantial portion of their eggs in that basket of the three of them controlling the defense this season. It should be noted that the Suns have two wildcards - Ryan Dunn and Oso Ighodaro - who were rookies last year. Dunn, another wing, could potentially outplay some of the team's more expensive options, especially if his three-point shot has taken another step up. As for Ighodaro, who is a 4/5 hybrid, he too could cement a place for himself in the rotation, thus offering the Suns quality at a lowered price point. The 23-year-old is highly intelligent out on the floor, moves the ball well, defends, and can incorporate himself into basically every rotation. Of course, relying on second-year players to break out isn't exactly a plan. It'd be a positive surprise more than anything, meaning the Suns can't bank on that. All-in-all, this roster seem primed for an in-season trade. Perhaps several. Because whatever this iteration of Suns basketball is, it doesn't really make a ton of sense. Unless noted otherwise, all stats via PBPStats, Cleaning the Glass or Basketball-Reference. All salary information via Spotrac. All odds courtesy of FanDuel Sportsbook.
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Realistic Landing Spots For The 10 Best NBA Free Agents
Realistic Landing Spots For The 10 Best NBA Free Agents originally appeared on Fadeaway World. Smoother extensions and fewer blockbuster moves have dominated this summer's NBA free agency. Still, a few major decisions have already shifted the landscape: James Harden punching in with the Clippers, Myles Turner pivoting to the Bucks, and Devin Booker committing to Phoenix through a maximum extension. Despite that, there remain around ten notable players, veteran and budding talent alike, who are unsigned or awaiting sign-and-trades. With cap space tight across most rosters and strict CBA constraints in place, these guys need the right blend of financial flexibility and roster fit. In the sections to follow, we'll name a realistic destination for each of these remaining free agents, forecasting where they genuinely make the most sense and have a high probability of landing. Let's take a look at where Damian Lillard could suit up next, why CP3 could rev up for a title-contender, and how someone like Al Horford might book a flight to San Francisco. Updates: Note that we have not included Malik Beasley due to an ongoing gambling investigation. * = RFA (Restricted Free Agents) 1. Damian Lillard Most Likely Destination: Boston Celtics Damian Lillard was unexpectedly waived and stretched by the Milwaukee Bucks after suffering a torn Achilles, making him an unrestricted free agent and giving him full autonomy over his next destination. With his career pivoted by adversity, Boston has emerged as the frontrunner, engaging in 'advanced stages' of recruitment and showcasing serious interest. Led by Jayson Tatum, who has reportedly been in 'constant contact' and actively recruiting Lillard, the Celtics see a perfect rehab match, bonding over their shared Achilles recoveries and championship aspirations. Boston's pitch is clear: a multi-year, low-risk deal allowing Lillard to return at full strength alongside Tatum and Brown, with real hopes of contending once both are healthy. 2. Jonathan Kuminga* Most Likely Destinations: Los Angeles Lakers, Milwaukee Bucks, Sacramento Kings Jonathan Kuminga's future in Golden State now appears uncertain, with insiders revealing that Steve Kerr doesn't view him as a long-term fit in their offense, his role diminishing as the roster shifts in other directions. We have floated an intriguing sign-and-trade involving the Lakers, where L.A. would swap major assets to bring in Kuminga's athletic upside and youth alongside LeBron James and Luka Doncic. At the same time, the Bucks are desperate to pair him with Giannis, making Milwaukee an attractive suitor, though Golden State reportedly isn't sold on the return package the Bucks are willing to offer. Sacramento also remains in the running, positioning Kuminga as their crown franchise player after De'Aaron Fox's departure, though it also depends on the quality of the trade package. In short, Golden State seems ready to move on, and while L.A. holds a compelling sign-and-trade pitch, both Milwaukee and Sacramento loom as serious contenders for Kuminga's next chapter. What happens with the budding star will be a major importance throughout the 2025 offseason. 3. Bradley Beal Most Likely Destination: Los Angeles Clippers The Clippers have positioned themselves as the leading suitor following Beal's anticipated buyout from Phoenix, which is currently stalling, since we identified LA as 'reportedly next destination' material. Their aggressive offseason strategy includes targeting Beal to boost perimeter scoring and veteran grit, a push fueled by clear organizational intent. Though his buyout is still in limbo, L.A.'s interest is substantive rather than speculative. Landing in Los Angeles would provide Beal with a ready-made contender and maximal platform to thrive, far beyond the Suns' current trajectory. The Clippers' front office sees him as a missing puzzle piece on a roster stocked for contention. All rings, no rebuild, if Phoenix finally buys him out (which we anticipate), Beal landing in LA feels inevitable. 4. Josh Giddey* Most Likely Destinations: Chicago Bulls, Golden State Warriors The Bulls remain the baseline fallback if nothing materializes, keeping Giddey in familiar territory, albeit with less upside than a shift west. Sticking in Chicago offers stability and opportunity but lacks championship proximity. The real drama will unfold if Golden State and Giddey's camp reach alignment on value, cap space, and roster fit. Giddey could be entangled in a sign-and-trade scenario with the Western contender on his radar after Chicago placed the full qualifying offer, positioning him as an RFA with real leverage. We also identified three realistic landing spots, likely the Warriors, using sign-and-trade mechanisms to both boost their playmaking depth and escape their current guard logjam. 5. Quentin Grimes* Most Likely Destinations: Los Angeles Lakers, Philadelphia 76ers The Lakers have emerged as the frontrunner in a fading but still realistic sign-and-trade push for Quentin Grimes, following a quiet silence on his negotiations with Philly. That silence sparked Lakers intel to re-engage, suggesting a scenario where Philly could send Grimes west in exchange for future assets, while the Lakers gain a reliable 3-and-D guard to bolster their wing depth. It's a logical fit for both. Grimes would land in a high-profile, competitive market with role clarity, and LA would fill a glaring roster need. If the deal goes through, expect Grimes to bolster Coach Redick's rotation with spot-starts alongside LeBron and Luka while stretching the court. However, if Los Angeles can get a deal done, we see Grimes returning to Philly. It is where he truly blossomed so far, and he could get plenty of opportunities to shine offensively if Paul George's knee simply gives out again. Grimes would want L.A., for obvious reasons, but Philly might be the way to go if it doesn't work out. 6. Cam Thomas Most Likely Destination: Brooklyn Nets, Sacramento Kings Brooklyn has to be the most logical new home for Cam Thomas, a player with a $5,993,172 qualifying offer on the table. They can't afford to lose him because, other than the recently acquired Michael Porter Jr., there isn't much of an offensive spark on the roster. The Nets lack star power and talent, and Thomas is a surefire bucket-getter no matter what is said about his defensive impact or leadership skills. The Nets will almost certainly bring Cam Thomas back by submitting an offer, and whether that is accepted or rejected remains to be seen. Otherwise, a team like the Sacramento Kings could be looking at Thomas as their way forward since losing De'Aaron Fox last year. Any player who dropped 24.0 PPG will be a hot commodity, and Thomas will be one throughout the 2025 offseason. 7. Chris Paul Most Likely Destinations: Los Angeles Clippers, Los Angeles Lakers, Milwaukee Bucks We might have listed the Lakers as a premier destination for Chris Paul's final act, citing mutual interest and alignment in their goals of a storybook West Coast finale. LA offers Paul a multi-faceted fit: close to home, capable of mentoring the team's younger stars, and positioned for a deep playoff push. However, the Clippers might be the team to spoil the Lakers' target. His veteran playmaking would slot seamlessly alongside Kawhi Leonard and James Harden without diminishing roles. We also can't ignore the presence of the Milwaukee Bucks, who have moved on from Damian Lillard. It's a tailored fit, big-market impact, deep contention, and a fitting end to a Hall-of-Fame career. 8. Russell Westbrook Most Likely Destination: Miami Heat, Sacramento Kings Only three teams are visibly interested in Russell Westbrook this offseason, and among them, the Miami Heat have reportedly risen to the top of expected destinations. We have already noted that even with his declining usage and narrative baggage, the Heat's veteran-driven culture and playoff-ready bridging role make them a surprisingly fitting home for Westbrook's next act. It may not be flashy, but Miami's combination of grit and structure aligns with his desire to chase one last deep playoff run, and maybe mend a frayed reputation. In Miami, Russ would slide into a defined bench role alongside Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo, with the Heat offering a chance to shine without straining the rotation. No matter what you think about Russ at this stage of his career, he is one of the best floor generals who is still available right now. We also have to look at the Sacramento Kings, a team that lost their floor general last year and could be in the market for a new one. 9. Malcolm Brogdon Most Likely Destinations: Los Angeles Clippers, New York Knicks, Los Angeles Lakers Malcolm Brogdon flies under the radar, but his polished 3-and-D play, smart leadership, and UConn roots have teams like the Clippers and Knicks circling with the MLE. He's not flashy, but his reliable mid-range, decent all-around defense, and playmaking make him an ideal secondary ball-handler. He fills rotational needs for contenders, often the unsung glue guys who push a team from good to great. We can't ignore that Brogdon could be on the Lakers' radar this offseason as well. Expect him to land a 2-year deal with a contender, because he can play on a contender and get himself back in the spotlight as an impact player. 10. Al Horford Most Likely Destination: Golden State Warriors Al Horford has a handshake agreement in place to join the Warriors, as the Lakers might have to submit, once they clear the uncertainty around Jonathan Kuminga's restricted status. It is clear that Golden State's front office views Horford as a low-cost veteran anchor who can space the court, steady the locker room, and complement its young core while they wait on Kuminga. Steph Curry even publicly hinted at the move, calling Horford 'a champion, great player,' signaling that this is more than just talk, it's imminent. Once the deal finalizes, expect Al to slot into a pivotal vet-min role, stretch five, mentor, and preseason opener. His signing restores Golden State's depth post-Looney and helps bridge the gap while Kuminga's future gets resolved. It represents a savvy roster fill: championship talent on a smart story was originally reported by Fadeaway World on Jul 16, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
4 point guards Phoenix Suns could sign after Chris Paul joined Clippers
Chris Paul won't be returning to the Phoenix Suns for a reunion after all. He agreed to join the Los Angeles Clippers on a veteran minimum on July 21. The Suns have two roster spots open to make up the total 15 for guaranteed contracts and they still need another true point guard. The tandem of Devin Booker and Jalen Green is the team's projected starting backcourt. The Suns only have Collin Gillespie at the one behind Booker, primarily a shooting guard who has handled the point for much of the past two seasons. The Suns are under the first league tax apron by $10.7 million after waiving and stretching Bradley Beal's contract on July 16 (Beal has since joined the Clippers), per SalarySwish. That same figure equals what they have left for a mid-level exception as a result. Spending more than $5.7 million of that $10.7 million would hard cap Phoenix at the first apron. With the NBA in the fourth week of free agency, here are four available point guards Phoenix could consider signing prior to training camp. Russell Westbrook Age/experience: 36/17 years Height: 6-foot-4 2024-25 averages (with ): 13.3 points per game, 6.1 assists, 4.9 rebounds, 1.4 steals, 1.9 assist-to-turnover ratio, 27.9 minutes in 36 starts, 75 games played Career averages: 21.2 points, 7.0 rebounds, 8.0 assists, 1.6 steals, 2.1 ATO Analysis: Westbrook is a former MVP and was named to the NBA's 75th Anniversary Team. His name might help fill seats at PHX Arena. Westbrook has become a journeyman veteran point guard since he ended his legendary 11-year run with Oklahoma City in 2019, when he was traded to Houston for Paul. Westbrook has been on four additional teams, including the Washington Wizards, Los Angeles Lakers, Clippers and Nuggets thereafter. He was a solid contributor for the latter two as a sixth man, but struggles in the clutch, remains an inconsistent outside shooter who opposing teams sag from along the perimeter (30.5% career shooting from 3) and is turnover prone. After the Lakers bought out Westbrook in 2023, he has signed veteran minimum deals for less than $4 million. The Suns can afford that, getting his veteran leadership for their new young roster. He would add depth with Gillespie and bring rim attacks and height along the perimeter at a bargain. More NBA: Suns not ruling out more moves, but good with current younger roster Malcolm Brogdon Age/experience: 32/nine years Height: 6-foot-4 2024-25 averages (with Wizards): 12.7 ppg, 4.1 apg, 3.8 rpg, 2.7 ATO, career-low 23.5 minutes in 24 games, 13 starts Career averages: 15.3 ppg, 4.7 apg, 4.1 rpg, 2.6 ATO Analysis: Brogdon is a solid backup, who won Sixth Man of the Year honors following the Boston Celtics' 2022 NBA Finals run. Soon to move onto the fifth team of his career, Brogdon was a serviceable playmaker for the league's second-worst team, the Wizards, last season. His health and jumpshot are the biggest concerns. Brogdon shot a career-low 28.6% from 3, but 38.8% for his career. He's appeared in just 63 games over the past two seasons because of injuries. Ben Simmons Age/experience: 29/seven years Height: 6-foot-10 2024-25 averages (combined with Brooklyn Nets, Clippers): 5.0 ppg, 5.5 apg, 4.7 rpg in 22.0 minutes Career averages: 13.1 ppg, 7.4 rpg, 7.2 apg, 1.5 steals, 55.8% shooting Analysis: Simmons is known for being more injured than on the court since he was Philadelphia's No. 1 overall pick in 2016. Despite his questionable past, the former All-Star has shown some occasional signs of reverting to his days as a top point-of-attack defender and distributor who can play multiple positions at his size. His stellar 14-9-8 performance in Phoenix's home loss to Brooklyn on Nov. 27 last season is an example. Simmons was bought out by Brooklyn at the trade deadline in February, then joined the Clippers off waivers. If he were to join Phoenix, it's definitely not for stretching defenses because Simmons avoids shooting from deep. But his addition could "align" with the Suns' offseason initiative for building a new identity of toughness and grit on defense, putting more length and height in the backcourt and for switches. Jared Butler Age/experience: 24/four Height: 6-foot-3 2024-25 average (with Philadelphia 76ers, Wizards): 9.0 ppg, 3.7 assists, .448/.355/.824 splits, 2.8 ATO Career averages: 6.7 ppg, 2.8 apg, .450/.341/.818, 2.5 ATO Analysis: Butler may not be as familiar to fans. Although the 76ers declined their team option to keep him, that doesn't mean he can't be serviceable elsewhere. Butler isn't a great defender, but he's young, would come at a good price and has upside as a decent shooter who can prove that he belongs in a system as a glue guy that can score in spurts. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Point guards Suns should consider after Chris Paul joins Clippers
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Phoenix Suns' biggest mistake in 2025 NBA free agency
The post Phoenix Suns' biggest mistake in 2025 NBA free agency appeared first on ClutchPoints. The Phoenix Suns excelled in the NBA Draft and showcased strong summer league performances from their rookies and second-year players. However, there might be one area they didn't address in free agency that could be the difference maker. Although the Suns officially waived Bradley Beal, they could still use another guard: A point guard. That mantra was echoed last season, but it didn't truly come to fruition. Tyus Jones was effective and did his job, considering he was on a one-year, minimum-salary deal. Still, his lack of size and scoring punch made him nearly unplayable down the stretch of the season. Regardless of that move, another point guard could truly help unlock Devin Booker and Jalen Green. Both players are elite scorers, and unlike Beal and Booker, adding Green unlocks a new level of dynamic play. The former Houston Rockets guard plays above the rim and is one of the most explosive athletes in the league. Meanwhile, Booker's game is about finesse, timing, and truly being a master of his craft. That can unveil so many unique opportunities for both players to score effectively. The question that ponders, though. Could landing someone like Chris Paul or Malcolm Brogdon make that much of a difference? Short answer: yes. Paul's age is a lingering concern, along with Brogdon's injury history. Despite that, a team like the Suns with young players and two dynamic scorers could use a floor general. Chris Paul should run it back with the Suns Although Paul could re-sign with the Los Angeles Clippers, his time with the Suns was unforgettable. He unlocked a version of Booker that no one saw. He had some of the most efficient shooting percentages of his career. Not to mention, the aggressiveness was off the charts. Granted, that was a Chris Paul at age 35, 36, and 37. In that age-36 season, he led the league with 10.8 assists and helped Phoenix to a 64-18 record. Though they were ultimately eliminated by the Dallas Mavericks in one of the most lopsided Game 7s in NBA history. Since then, he has gone to the Golden State Warriors and the San Antonio Spurs. He played with two young teams, but didn't find much sustained success. Even though he would be 40 entering the 2025-26 season, he could find the fountain of youth, like he did in his first stint with the Suns. Malcolm Brogdon could benefit the Suns Much like how Paul could benefit Phoenix, Brogdon could do the same thing. After reports surfaced that Brogdon was heading to the Suns in prior seasons, he could sign with the team outright this year, as more reports have indicated that he could land in the Valley of the Sun. The veteran point guard has had a recent streak of being productive. For instance, he secured the 2022-23 Sixth Man of the Year award with the Boston Celtics. Also, his size and versatility can make him a useful option for the point guard spot. Having someone to simply be a gadget player could be what the Suns need. Finding someone to initiate the offense and let Booker and Green score the ball at a high level is key. Not to mention, rebounding, defense, and that veteran presence could corral the young guys into the new Suns culture. Not having a point guard would be a loss for the Suns This was a similar sentiment last season, and one that never came to fruition. Jones was not the answer, so why would Paul or Brogdon be? Having a veteran presence to calm things down will be an automatic boost. Rookies like Khaman Maluach, Koby Brea, and second-year players Oso Ighodaro and Ryan Dunn can learn a ton from a floor general. Plus, it'll allow those guys to focus on playing freely. They won't feel the need to do more than what is asked of them. They won't have to play a role they are uncomfortable with. If the Suns don't land either guard, they could strike out in free agency, despite having one of the best NBA drafts of the summer. Related: Suns' Mat Ishbia breaks silence on Bradley Beal buyout Related: Suns' owner Mat Ishbia breaks silence on Bradley Beal buyout
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Suns' Mat Ishbia breaks silence on Bradley Beal buyout
The post Suns' Mat Ishbia breaks silence on Bradley Beal buyout appeared first on ClutchPoints. The Bradley Beal and Phoenix Suns era is over, as the team bought him out on Thursday. However, this move felt long overdue, and one that Suns owner Mat Ishbia was ready to make. After the failed Big 3 experiment of Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, and Beal, he pulled the eject button on the latter two players. On Arizona Sports, Ishbia detailed what his thought process was behind waiving Beal. 'He's a great guy. Just not a fit with Phoenix Suns going forward,' Ishbia said. 'We told him that. We made that decision. We let them know we wanted to move forward without him. 'It doesn't mean he's a bad guy. It doesn't mean he's a bad player. … He's a great player, but for Phoenix and what we're doing, it wasn't a fit and we had to move on and make those decisions.' Ever since the start of the offseason, the owner has elaborated that the team needs to be competitive and have an identity. They made a flurry of moves on draft day, as well as the Suns trading for Jalen Green, in exchange for Durant. That move signaled the beginning of the end for Beal. Mat Ishbia wants a fresh start for the Suns after Bradley Beal's buyout Buying out a player with a near $50 million price tag is a hard pill to swallow. Even if the team decides to go the stretch and waiver route, Beal will be paid for the next five seasons. Despite some of the concerns about the salary cap, pulling off a stretch and waiver can be extremely beneficial. For starters, it puts them back under the first and second tax apron. Furthermore, it opens up the opportunity to sign players to the mid-level exception. Will the Suns automatically be back to a contending status without Beal? It's unlikely, considering the youth of the roster. However, there's a new identity on the horizon. One thing is for certain, though. Phoenix might live out the mantra of addition by subtraction. Regardless of whether Beal finds his old groove again, his time in the Valley of the Sun was one that some fans will hope to forget. Related: Suns' owner Mat Ishbia breaks silence on Bradley Beal buyout Related: Phoenix Suns' biggest mistake in 2025 NBA free agency
