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5 under-the-radar signings that could greatly impact the NBA title race

By Rowan Kent

MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE - MARCH 31: Russell Westbrook #0 of the LA Clippers reacts during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum on March 31, 2023 in Memphis, Tennessee. 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 Justin Ford/Getty Images)
MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE - MARCH 31: Russell Westbrook #0 of the LA Clippers reacts during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum on March 31, 2023 in Memphis, Tennessee. 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 Justin Ford/Getty Images) /
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Yuta Watanabe, Phoenix Suns – Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Yuta Watanabe, Phoenix Suns – Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /

#1: Yuta Watanabe, Phoenix Suns

The Phoenix Suns took one look at the new NBA collective bargaining agreement and decided to ignore the warnings of massive tax spending consequences with their offseason. The team traded the rest of their draft picks for Bradley Beal after doing so for Kevin Durant and had to assemble the rest of their roster through minimum players.

Luckily, lots of heady veterans wanted to join up with Beal, Durant, and Devin Booker, and the team was able to build out a competent bench with fliers like Keita Bates-Diop, Eric Gordon, and Drew Eubanks. The most impactful player, however, should end up being sharpshooting wing Yuta Watanabe.

https://twitter.com/SunsLead/status/1675158679740628993

Watanabe played with Kevin Durant in Brooklyn and was one of the team’s favorite targets in the corners, as he was an absolute marksman from those spots. Although Watanabe has ended up on his fair share of poster dunks in the past few years, he’s a willing and capable wing defender with size for his forward position.

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While his signing didn’t generate as much fanfare as Gordon, Watanabe’s under-the-radar acquisition may prove to be the reason that the Suns win the title this year. By fielding a true 3-and-D wing next to their big three and Deandre Ayton, Phoenix should have a lineup that no defense can hope of stopping.