NBA Trades: 3 targets for the Phoenix Suns not named Kevin Durant

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NEW YORK, NEW YORK – APRIL 26: Chris Paul #3 of the Phoenix Suns tries to get past Derrick Rose #4 of the New York Knicks in the second half at Madison Square Garden on April 26, 2021 in New York City, NBA Trades: 3 potential targets for the Phoenix Suns not named Kevin Durant. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /

NBA Trades: 3 potential targets for the Phoenix Suns not named Kevin Durant – Derrick Rose

The New York Knicks have made plenty of moves this offseason, parting ways with several rotational players from last season. They may not be done either, as rumors continue to swirl that they are in hot pursuit of Utah’s Donovan Mitchell. If the Knicks are looking to move players, one that the Phoenix Suns should keep an eye on is Derrick Rose.

While he is no longer the former NBA MVP that he once was, Rose has adapted to being a reserve over the last four seasons, and he has thrived in the role by averaging 16.2 points, 4.6 assists, and 2.6 rebounds per game.

With scoring and facilitating like that, Rose could immediately improve the bench production for the Suns, as their bench brigade ranked 18th in points and 15th in assists per game last season. The 33-year-old would be an upgrade over Phoenix’s current backup point guard Cameron Payne, and bringing him in would form a lethal three-headed snake in the backcourt in Chris Paul, Devin Booker, and Derrick Rose.

Rose is currently set to make $14.5 million next season, which is digestible for the Suns in a trade package. It is unclear what kind of compensation the Knicks may seek draft-wise if they are willing to move Rose, but the Suns have the assets to make a genuine offer. Adding a lethal scoring guard like Rose that can also pass the ball at a high level and can handle the basketball could be a huge addition to this Phoenix roster next season.

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