The Suns presumably do not stay together long.
The Phoenix Suns are coming off a poor season but may be trapped. The NBA’s new second tax apron restrictions limit their freedom. James Jones and the front staff made some terrible choices, but none larger than trading for Bradley Beal. His no-trade clause presumably keeps him in Phoenix, but how can the Suns get into title contention?
They think new head coach Mike Budenholzer can get more from this roster. The Suns feature three exceptional talents and some quality role players. Their depth is a worry, but Phoenix will try to obtain difference-makers on minimum contracts. If the Suns do not win more, adjustments may be forced.
Kevin Durant is no stranger to asking a trade. Devin Booker is the only member of their current starting five who has only played for one franchise. New owner Mat Ishbia aims on delivering a title to Phoenix. If they can’t, adjustments will be made, so when do their existing starters leave the organization?
Grayson Allen Allen just inked a four-year $70 million extension that him under contract until at least 2027. The 6’4 wing was a throw-in on the Deandre Ayton trade but led the NBA by shooting 46.1 percent from 3-point range in 2024. The Suns need shooters surrounding their Big 3, and Allen is outstanding in that area.
Increasing his compensation makes him more likely to be traded. Under the new rules, teams over the second tax apron cannot combine wages in a transfer or take back additional money. Dealing away costly players is the easiest approach to adding talent, which might make for some wild short-term trades in the near future.
Allen will be traded in 2025
The Suns give it one more attempt with some fresh arrivals, but the result is the same. They struggle to remain fit and tumble out early in the playoffs. To appease their stars, Allen gets traded in the summer of 2025. He is not the first player of their current starting five relocated, though.
