Ranking The Phoenix Suns’ Best Trade Assets In 2016-17

3. Tyson Chandler

Any teams looking for a veteran locker room leader who can hold down the boards and protect the rim should consider picking up the phone and inquiring about Tyson Chandler’s availability — especially after his last few monster games.

At age 34, what Chandler’s been doing for the Suns on the glass lately is remarkable. Ranking fifth in the NBA in rebounds at 12.2 per game, the former Defensive Player of the Year has hauled in 23 and 21 boards over his last two games.

During his 83 games in a Suns uniform, Chandler has pulled down at least 20 rebounds four times, and at least 17 rebounds 11 times. He’s not the rim protector he once was, but couldn’t a contender in need of frontcourt depth like the Cleveland Cavaliers, or one in need of rebounding like the Boston Celtics, use him?

The Celtics and Portland Trail Blazers have already been mentioned in conjunction with the injured Andrew Bogut, and though the Cavs would have a hard time stringing a deal together, especially as a team thriving with Tristan Thompson at the 5, not having Timofey Mozgov could matter come playoff time.

Hell, even a young team like the Minnesota Timberwolves, who are reportedly in search of frontcourt help, could be a potential candidate.

Trading Chandler would come with an obvious benefit for the Suns in what looks like another non-playoff season, giving Alex Len the starting minutes he needs before he hits restricted free agency this summer.

Averaging 7.8 points and 12.2 rebounds on 69.2 percent shooting, Chandler has managed to bump up his trade value. The only potential obstacle is the remaining two years and $26.6 million on his contract after this season. It’s a small price to pay for a monster rebounder in the current market, but there is some risk in paying Chandler through his age-36 season.