Since getting to the Finals in 2021, Devin Booker and the Phoenix Suns have not come close to going back. Multiple early postseason exits After entering the season with title expectations around a core of Kevin Durant and Devin Booker, the Phoenix Suns are in danger of missing the playoffs altogether.
The Suns are 2.5 games back of the Mavericks for the 10th seed in the West and they have the hardest remaining strength of schedule in the league according to tankathon (.593).
From blow-ups on the sideline to coach Mike Budenholzer reportedly wanting Booker to “tone his voice down” in the locker room, Phoenix could be headed for a roster blow-up in the offseason. Booker especially could grow frustrated with the organization that drafted him and has made it no secret that he wants to win.
The Suns may be forced to move Booker in the offseason, to jumpstart their rebuild.
You don’t trade stars like Booker away. He is in the prime of his career, the leading scorer in Suns franchise history, arguably one of the best 15 players in the league, and the ability to take over in big moments whenever you need him to. However, Phoenix has put themselves in a position where they may be forced to move on.
The Suns are in the second apron, which heavily restricts them in trades, which makes it hard for them to improve their roster around Booker and Durant. In addition to that, no one really wants role players like Grayson Allen, Mason Plumlee, or Royce O’Neale, given the money they make and their up-and-down play.
Beal also has a no-trade clause and essentially three years left on his contract (57 million dollar player option at the end of 26-27 that he will almost assuredly opt in to), putting Phoenix in a tough spot financially.
Durant is almost guaranteed to be moved this offseason, with the Suns seeking three first-round picks for the forward. Given his age and need for a new contract, Phoenix is unlikely to fetch a huge package for Durant, especially one that could jumpstart a rebuild. If Booker were to request a move, many teams in the league would line up for his services.
Even if he doesn’t, the Suns have to consider it at the least. Owner Mat Ishbia’s recklessness has put the franchise in this position, and the only way out is an entire top-to-bottom roster reset.