Although the 2022-23 NBA season just began, it is clear that one prominent weakness of the Phoenix Suns early on has been their bench.
Phoenix’s reserves have struggled to contribute in the early going, and it does not help that there is a Jae Crowder-sized hole in the roster right now. Of course, Crowder requested a trade from the Suns after he reportedly lost his starting spot to Cameron Johnson. The Suns have engaged with a handful of teams regarding Crowder in trade talks, and perhaps they could strengthen their bench while finding the veteran a new home. With all that said, let us look at three trade targets the Suns should pursue to fortify their bench.
3 intriguing trade targets to bolster the Phoenix Suns’ bench: Doug McDermott, San Antonio Spurs
Without Jae Crowder, the Phoenix Suns could use some more forward depth. Doug McDermott may not be the flashiest name, but he could be an eye-catching target for Phoenix in this case.
McDermott’s most desirable characteristic is his long-range shooting. The eight-year veteran has shot 41 percent from 3-point range on 3.3 attempts per game, as he has been one of the league’s most underrated marksmen over the years. Averaging 9.2 points per game in that same span, the 30-year-old would provide solid scoring and shooting off Phoenix’s bench, both of which would be incredibly useful. He would fit right in alongside Devin Booker, Chris Paul, and the rest of this core as they look to replenish their forward depth.
The veteran is on the books for $13.8 million this season and the same amount next season, so he is an affordable target for the Suns. If Phoenix wants to kill two birds with one stone by trading away Crowder while adding a forward to replace him, McDermott would be a feasible option. According to LJ Ellis of Spurs Talk, the San Antonio Spurs shopped McDermott this offseason, so he is on the market. It is unclear what they would want in return, but the Suns should kick the tires on a move as they weigh their options.