Pre-Draft Outlook
Phoenix traded away much of the future to add Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal to the current superteam that also features Devin Booker. It appears the Suns aren’t shying away from potentially shedding their 2024 first-round pick and a first-round pick in 2031 to acquire more veteran depth. Keep in mind Phoenix has already sent out four future first-round picks and six future second-round picks, not to mention four first-round pick swaps. The payroll for next season exceeds $200 million, which puts the club in the second apron of the luxury tax. By the way, the Suns can’t even trade Beal unless he waives the no-trade clause in his contract.
The Way To Go
It’s unclear at this point given the team’s tenuous situation that includes a new coach. But Phoenix can’t go wrong by actually using the No. 22 pick to bolster an aging, thin roster with some useful talent. The Suns could start by bringing aboard a legitimate point guard so that Booker can thrive in his more natural role off ball as a scorer. Adding another wing or center would be beneficial, too. Baylor’s Yves Missi could be still on the board at No. 22, giving Phoenix a more athletic player capable of switching that can learn from veteran Jusuf Nurkic. Bobi Klintman is an intriguing wing option.
— Michael C. Wright
Here’s a quick look at Phoenix’s current roster entering the Draft:
Under Contract
G: Grayson Allen
G: Bradley Beal
G: Devin Booker
F: Kevin Durant
F: David Roddy
C: Jusuf Nurkic
Free Agents
G: Eric Gordon
G: Saben Lee
G: Josh Okogie
G: Isaiah Thomas
G/F: Damion Lee
F: Royce O’Neale
F: Ish Wainright
F: Thaddeus Young
F/C: Drew Eubanks
C/F: Udoka Aziubuike
C/F: Bol Bol
> 2024 Free Agent Tracker