Four Potential Trade Candidates for the Phoenix Suns
To put it nicely, the Phoenix Suns have been in a very rough patch.
Over their last 10 games, the team is just 1-9 without Devin Booker. Booker will remain out for the next two weeks at least, leaving the supporting cast with a lot of work to keep the team close to .500.
Regardless, many changes need to be made to make this team a contender once again. With the trade deadline just one month away, let's look at four potential trade candidates for the Suns.
Kyle Kuzma - Washington Wizards
Kuzma is one of the best players on the trade market, having the best season of his career with the Wizards.
Over his six-year career, he has developed into a high-level scorer, averaging over 21 PPG this season. Phoenix lacks scoring without Booker in the lineup, primarily because they don't have a true second option. They have Chris Paul and Mikal Bridges, who can have a good game but won't drop 20+ consistently.
Kuzma would be a perfect second option to pick up slack when Booker is out or having an off night. He would fit perfectly into the Suns' offense and give them an extra offensive spark that is oh-so-needed.
Potential Trade:
Suns trade: Jae Crowder, Damion Lee, Second-round pick
Receive: Kyle Kuzma
Bojan Bogdanovic - Detroit Pistons
There have been recent rumors of Bogdanovic parting ways with the Detroit Pistons. This would be another target mainly for offensive purposes, adding a second option for Booker. Bogdanovic is averaging 21 PPG with the Pistons this season, shooting over 40% from beyond the arc.
Over his last five games, he's averaging 23.8 PPG, 4.2 AST, and 3.4 REB on 54/54/90 shooting splits. For a scoring option of this caliber, he's not one of the cheapest on the market, making roughly $19M annually. His offensive production would greatly aid this struggling Suns team and increase their chances in the playoffs.
Potential Trade:
Suns trade: Jae Crowder, Landry Shamet, 2023 Second-round pick
Receive: Bojan Bogdanovic, Saddiq Bey
John Collins - Atlanta Hawks
Collins is an expensive but more than capable option to fill their void at the power forward position. He's having a bit of a down year, but it's clear he's not happy with the Atlanta Hawks. He has seemingly been on the market forever, but Phoenix could now use him after the Jae Crowder situation.
Besides this year and his rookie season, he's averaged at least 16 PPG and seven RPG while giving solid defense. He would solidify the frontcourt with Deandre Ayton and give Booker another option. A lineup consisting of Booker, Paul, Bridges, Collins, and Ayton would be a contending lineup in the West.
Potential Trade:
Suns trade: Jae Crowder, Landry Shamet
Receive: John Collins
Kelly Oubre Jr. - Charlotte Hornets
As crazy as it sounds, there are rumors of Oubre leaving the Hornets, and a reunion might be just what the doctors ordered. Oubre has always been an offensive player, but he has taken it to another level this year. In 35 games with the Hornets this season, he's averaged 20.2 PPG, 5.1 RPG, and 1.6 STL.
Similarly to the other players mentioned, he would provide another scoring option for the Suns and be someone that can do it night in and night out. He is familiar with the Phoenix players and would be more than comfortable in the Suns' arena.
Potential Trade:
Suns trade: Jae Crowder, 2023 Second-round pick
Receive: Kelly Oubre Jr.