Phoenix Suns Linked to 2026 NBA Draft Trade-Up for Arizona Star

The Phoenix Suns only hold the No. 47 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, as the Memphis Grizzlies own their first-round selection (No. 16).

However, a trade-up into Round 1 is by no means off the table. The Suns are a mediocre team in the Western Conference, so landing a promising prospect in June's draft could help bolster their young core further.

If the Suns do successfully jump into the first-round, Arizona Sports links Phoenix to Arizona Wildcats star forward Koa Peat.

Peat is a unique player in the sense that he doesn't fit the mold of a typical modern NBA forward. He relies much more on his physical tools and athleticism, like an older-era power forward, rather than on shooting and playmaking. He is also a solid defender with strong finishing skills around the rim.

In his one-and-done season with the Wildcats, the 19-year-old averaged 14.1 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 2.6 assists on 52.8% shooting in 36 games. 

The Suns certainly do need another forward to play alongside Dillon Brooks, who can shift between small and power forward due to his physicality and strength. If Peat was added to the mix, Brooks would likely move to the '3' while allowing Peat to be most comfortable at the '4.' 

This trade-up would give the Suns an intriguing young core led by Rasheer Fleming, Khaman Maluach, and Peat. By no means are any of these players generational talents, but in the right system, they could evolve into promising and productive pieces. 

Peat is not known for creating his own shot, which could be an issue on a Suns team that lacks a primary playmaker. However, Phoenix continues to be floated as a landing spot for veteran star guards across the league.

Odds are the Suns would be trading into the late first-round. Given how deep a draft class this is considered, Peat, along with many others, could offer upside to a Suns team desperate for talent.

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Anthony Pasciolla is the publisher of SunsRoundtable. He can be reached via email at [email protected] or followed on X @AnthonyPasci.