Pre-Draft Outlook
Two years in a row Phoenix dropped out of the postseason in humiliating fashion at home, leading to the firing of coach Monty Williams in tipping off an offseason that will surely feature plenty of change. The most important priority for the Suns? Building a stronger supporting cast around Devin Booker and Kevin Durant, but it’s unlikely they’ll be able to accomplish that goal in the 2023 NBA Draft considering they have one pick (No. 52). Phoenix hasn’t held a first- or second-round pick in three years and gave up four unprotected future first-round picks in the deal that landed Durant. We all saw how the lack of depth adversely affected the Suns this past postseason. Given the current plight, it’s likely Phoenix will actually use the 52nd pick to stock what appears to be a fairly bare cupboard.
The Way To Go
As stated above, Phoenix needs to improve its supporting cast, but more than half of the club’s 15-man roster is set to hit free agency. Adding a second-round draft pick won’t get the job done, either. So, the Suns need to do plenty of wheeling and dealing this offseason in free agency to remain in championship contention. Even if Phoenix doesn’t part ways this offseason with future Hall of Fame point guard Chris Paul, the Suns could use an infusion of youth in the backcourt. The Suns may also look to bolster depth at center in the Draft. Dayton’s DaRon Holmes, Illinois’ Terrence Shannon Jr. and Eastern Michigan’s Emoni Bates all appear to be viable options at No. 52.
— Michael C. Wright
Here’s a quick look at who the Phoenix Suns have under contract, who is a free agent this summer and who they added in the 2022 NBA Draft.
Under Contract
G: Devin Booker
G: Chris Paul
G: Cameron Payne
G: Landry Shamet
G/F: Terrence Ross
F: Kevin Durant
C: Deandre Ayton
Free Agents
G: Saben Lee (two-way)
G: Josh Okogie (unrestricted)
G/F: Damion Lee (unrestricted)
G/F: Terrence Ross (unrestricted)
F: Darius Bazley (restricted)
F: Torrey Craig (unrestricted)
F: Ish Wainright (team option)
F: T.J. Warren (unrestricted)
C: Bismack Biyombo (unrestricted)
C: Jock Landale (unrestricted)
> 2023 Free Agent Tracker
Last Year’s Draft
2022: None
* = acquired via trade
** = traded in draft-night deal
*** = traded in offseason deal