Should Phoenix Suns Trade for Potential Point Guard of Future?

The curious position that the Phoenix Suns find themselves in heading into the 2026-27 season resides in a myriad of factors. 

Among these is a mismanagement of draft assets, the lack of a long-term point guard on the roster, and the prospects of bridging two timelines together at the moment.

While Phoenix is seeking to take the next step towards contention, they lack a "traditional" point guard that compliments five-time All-Star Devin Booker. The acquisition of Bradley Beal in 2023 ultimately did not yield the results that Phoenix intended, but it did make the type of player the franchise needs in that spot crystal clear. 

In comes Darius Garland.

The now Los Angeles Clipper was of interest when the Suns owned the sixth pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, but he went to the Cleveland Cavaliers. Garland rose to stardom over the next six-plus years, but ultimately got traded to L.A. as part of the James Harden deal in February. 

Garland seemingly went into the offseason as part of the Clippers' long-term plans, but drafting Keaton Wagler and coming to terms with losing multiple first-round draft picks gives management food for thought.

While there are reasons for Phoenix to be tepid in this possibility (namely injuries), there are a few that point to the organization needing to explore a move. 

The most vital is that a Garland-Booker backcourt creates a balanced dynamic that the Suns haven't had the luxury of since the Chris Paul days. The Vanderbilt product would take on-ball stress off of Booker, allowing the 11-year vet to play to his biggest strengths more reliably.

Garland simply fits the profile of a point guard that fits next to Booker, much in the same way a previous teammate such as Ricky Rubio did. The ability that gives Garland a second gear is his top-tier shooting ability, as well as a shiftiness in getting to the hoop that wasn't quite present with previous point guards.

Garland's ability as a pick-and-roll ball handler is yet another reason why Phoenix should consider making a move. The 6'1" guard has an exceptional feel for the game, and would likely enhance the development of second-year center Khaman Maluach, as well as off-ball shooters such as Luke Kennard. 

Phoenix has another level that they can reach as a team - the 26-year-old Garland has the ability to enhance the 2026-27 team, while also serving as a bridge to the future.