5 trade deadline targets for the Phoenix Suns
The Phoenix Suns looked to be one of the most improved teams in the NBA after a 7-4 season start. Everything was going good for them. Devin Booker was a 50-40-90 club member, Monty Williams was the coach of the year favourite, and they were taking down teams like the Clippers & 76’ers. However times have changed and the Phoenix Suns look as if they’re back to their old ways as they currently sit at the 13th spot in the western conference at 14-23. the NBA trade deadline is approaching and the Suns are lacking defense and a go to scorer for the second unit. This list will showcase some talents currently being shopped that could really help the Suns problems.
#1. Montrezl Harrell
(Photo Via Los Angeles Times)
Montrezl Harrell is a name that has popped up in recent trade talks due to his ability to provide a scoring spark off the bench, and ability to close out games. Harrell has consistently maintained a reputation as one of the leagues best bench players in recent years other than Lou Williams. The Suns have had trouble finding scoring in their second unit with no real veteran or reliable offensive presence to lead the way. Harrell is a proven veteran who could provide scoring, rebounding, and rim protection off the bench as well as close out games which the Suns have had some trouble doing this season. The Suns could also throw in an additional asset to acquire a quality shooter off the bench in Landry Shamet.
Preferred Trade:
Clippers Receive: Aron Baynes, Ty Jerome, Future 1st round pick
Suns Receive: Montrezl Harrell, Landry Shamet
#2. Aaron Gordon
(Photo Via Orlando Magic Daily)
Aaron Gordon. The dunk contest sensation has been linked to the Suns ever since the 2018 free agency period. Gordon has been somewhat dissapointing this season putting up only 13 points along with 7 rebounds on 40% shooting from the field. The 24 year old fits the Suns needs and timeline perfectly. Gordon is a lob catching, rebounding, high flying 4 that could really help the Suns with their inconsistencies in the front court especially on the defensive side of the ball.
Preferred Trade:
Magic Receive: Dario Saric, Mikal Bridges
Suns Receive: Aaron Gordon
#3. Danilo Gallinari
(Photo Via Forbes)
The Oklahoma City Thunder have shocked the league and currently sit at the 7th seed in the western conference after fans thought they would tank after trading stars Paul George and Russell Westbrook. Despite the recent success, they are still looking to trade some of their main pieces such as Danilo Gallinari. The Suns have engaged in some serious trade talks with the Thunder centered around Gallinari. Gallinari could continue to help the Suns space out the floor, but can be a replacement at the 4 for Dario Saric providing more consistency and better defensive tendencies.
Preferred Trade:
Thunder Receive: Dario Saric, Mikal Bridges, Future 2nd round pick
Suns Receive: Danilo Gallinari
#4. Kyle Kuzma
(Photo Via Bleacher Report)
Kyle Kuzma this season just has not looked like the same old Kuz. He’s had flashes, however he now lacks the consistency we’ve always thought he had. Recently the Lakers have started shopping him and have made it known that they are taking offers for him. The Suns really lack a main scoring option off the bench, and that has arguably been their biggest weakness this season and someone like Kuzma could definetly help with that. He hasn’t been the same since he came back however, as the 4th scoring option on the Lakers starting only 1 of 28 games played he is still managing to put up over 12 points on 10 shots a night. He can come in and set the tone for a second unit especially in Phoenix. Due to his drop off in productivity he should be a bargain before the trade deadline.
Preferred Trade:
Lakers Receive: Mikal Bridges, Elie Okobo, Future 2nd round pick
Suns Receive: Kyle Kuzma
#5. Kevin Love
(Photo Via Bleacher Report)
Kevin love has recently become very frustrated with the front office, coaching staff, and teammates in Cleveland and has made it public that he does not want to play there anymore and would like to be traded to a playoff contending team. The Cavaliers have been in trade talks with multiple teams the past few weeks and a trade is bound to happen. Kevin Love is a veteran with a championship under his belt and some real playoff experience who could establish himself as a leader on the youngest team in the NBA. Love has a pretty awful contract for the next 4 years but he’s a legit veteran who can come into the Suns locker room and help make a playoff push without a doubt
Preferred Trade:
Cavaliers Receive: Dario Saric, Mikal Bridges, Elie Okobo, Future 1st round pick
Suns Receive: Kevin Love, Cedi Osman