Suns Should Consider Trading Up for These 3 Prospects in 2026 NBA Draft

Phoenix Suns general manager Brian Gregory is carrying a hefty burden heading into next Tuesday's first round of the NBA draft, as the franchise only holds the No. 47 pick at this current juncture - which will be conveyed on Wednesday. 

Gregory's role at the moment is complicated, as the second-year GM is both trying to create a timeline towards contention and simultaneously keeping what's in place ahead of the 2026-27 season. 

Whispers have persisted that Gregory may look to trade back into the first round despite Phoenix's lack of controllable draft capital - there are several prospects in what is expected to be a stout class that would be worth exploring a move up for.

Joshua Jefferson (Iowa State), Koa Peat (Arizona), and Bennett Stirtz (Iowa) are three prospects that are absolutely worth kicking the tires on, just two years after trading up nearly 20 spots to land Odo Ighodaro two years ago. 

Jefferson is perhaps the most intriguing instant fit for the Suns, as he possesses standout size, athleticism, and playmaking abilities - almost resembling a "point forward," while his expansive experience further cements his status as a pro-ready player.

Peat is an interesting option as a flyer, as the former five-star recruit has seen his draft stock stand on tenuous grounds in recent weeks. Peat could present a high-upside option while also developing under the wings of Phoenix's exceptional staff. 

Stirtz is a veteran point guard that is calm, collected, and adept at playing a number of roles. The Suns don't have a defined weakness on the roster that can put a real hole in playoff ambitions, but they certainly do need another plus playmaker to reignite hopes of expanding upon last season's 44-win output.

While Phoenix will risk a lot by attempting to move up, there are certainly a handful of players that would contribute to raising the profile of the youthful core in Phoenix and supporting Devin Booker in a more sustainable manner.

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Kevin Hicks is a contributing writer to SunsRoundtable. He can be reached on X at khicks_21.