Jul 31, 2026 12:31 AM
As Phoenix navigates a pivotal crossroads, targeting high-impact stars like Zion Williamson and Anthony Davis could bridge the gap between developing youth and maximizing Devin Booker’s prime.
The ultimate responsibility that the front office of the Phoenix Suns hold in the swiftly approaching 2026-27 season is clear - keep the team competitive/in playoff position, while also further expanding a title window that gifts franchise player Devin Booker a chance to make the most of his remaining prime years.
Part of the process involves developing rising stars on the roster (Khaman Maluach, Koa Peat), while also maximizing the veteran talent that has been accrued since trading Kevin Durant last July.
The final piece of the puzzle has to rest in exploring trade avenues that can bridge both eras that are forming in Phoenix - the three names that make the most sense to monitor are below, with reasoning as to why each should be a target.
3. Zion Williamson
Williamson would absolutely be a high-risk, high-reward acquisition for the Suns, as the former number one overall pick is owed north of $87 million over the final two seasons of his contract.
The risk is worth kicking the tires on (at the very least), as Williamson would provide everything that Bridges does in a pinch, but would also manage to magnify those strengths beyond the surface. Williamson is clearly a world-class athlete, but also provides incredible passing chops, flashes of brilliance on defense, and a fearless attacking mindset that Bridges hasn't had in some time.
It's unlikely that the Suns would make a move for the Duke product, but it is a conversation that should at least be elicited.
2. Anthony Davis
Davis is perhaps the most attainable of the star players that have potential to hit the market in the coming months, although the Washington Wizards reportedly have no interest in trading the former All-NBA big at this time.
The price for Davis may increase over time if the 14-year vet experiences a resurgence and an improved bill of health in the upcoming campaign, but it's not something that can be counted on.
Could Phoenix possibly land Davis without parting with Maluach, Rasheer Fleming, or any of the first-round picks that they currently hold control of? It's not likely, but is certainly worth exploring. The dynamic that Davis and Booker would share is enticing, while the five-time All-Defense team selection would single-handedly push Phoenix into the upper echelon of defenses across the league.
1. Luka Doncic
The Los Angeles Lakers spent a profound amount of money to surround Doncic with suitable talent this offseason, however this may end up being in vain.
The Lakers' ceiling is still severely hamstrung, as they have yet to find a co-star that compliments Doncic in an ideal manner, while the majority of the money that was handed out to role players went to talents that are fairly volatile on a game-to-game basis.
It wouldn't be shocking to see Doncic request a trade next summer if another underwhelming season comes to fruition, and who better than Phoenix to come calling? Booker would benefit an exorbitant amount from delegating on-ball responsibility, while the roster that GM Brian Gregory is building could be argued as a better version of what the Lakers currently have.
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