The Phoenix Suns appear to be looking to add some big names to their depleted supporting cast after giving up a lot to land superstar Kevin Durant. They already added microwave scorer Terrance Ross after he was brought out by the Orlando Magic and could do the same with former league MVP Derrick Rose.
The Suns are targeting Derrick Rose on the buyout market, per @ChrisBHaynes pic.twitter.com/7OaY4575Zz
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) February 24, 2023
Rose has been mostly out of the New York Knicks’ rotation this season and is likely to be bought out by the team after he wasn’t moved at the trade deadline. If that indeed happens, the Suns could be at the top of his list of potential new teams. Rose can still play, but obviously, he isn’t nearly as good as he once was.
The Suns could use more depth.
Phoenix doesn’t need him to be; instead, they are looking to cobble together a solid nine- or 10-man rotation after moving several key players at the trade deadline.
Rose could help backup Hall of Fame point guard Chris Paul along with Cam Payne or spend time at shooting guard, helping them out by adding depth on the perimeter.
Given the allure of playing alongside Paul, Durant, and Devin Booker, it’s difficult to imagine Rose saying no to playing in Phoenix if they can guarantee him consistent minutes. Even if the Suns can’t guarantee him consistent minutes, Rose may not want to pass up the opportunity to win a championship. This considering they are among the favorites now that they have Durant.
“Based on past interest, I wouldn’t be surprised if Phoenix considered Anthony for a roster spot. At at least one point in his tenure in Brooklyn, Kevin Durant saw Anthony as a great roster addition. With Durant in Phoenix, that’s something I’d keep an eye on.”
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) February 24, 2023
- @IanBegley on… pic.twitter.com/aZJ1HeAPaL
In addition to Rose, Phoenix could also pursue future Hall of Famer Carmelo Anthony, who hasn’t played this season. Durant conspicuously praised Melo recently, saying that the 38-year-old could still play in the NBA, and that may very well be true.
Anthony most likely wouldn’t be a rotation player, but rather a depth piece who can hit the occasional shot.
As a 15th man, a team could do worse, and Anthony likely would have another supporter in Paul, who was also a part of the Banana Boat crew.
All in all, the Suns appear to still be actively looking to upgrade their rapidly changing roster. However, signing Rose and Anthony is still far from a done deal.