Phoenix Suns Acquire Shooter in B/R Mock Trade

In a mock trade proposed by Bleacher Report, the Phoenix Suns add Harrison Barnes to their starting lineup.

It's difficult to make a starting lineup better after winning 64 games in the regular season, but the Phoenix Suns should do whatever it takes to ultimately push themselves over the edge. 

That's been the thought process with pursuit of Kevin Durant (who conveniently is rumored to be in the city of Phoenix at this moment) despite the overall message from general manager James Jones of wanting to keep the team together. 

When looking for upgrades in the starting lineup, there's essentially only one glaring spot that would be due for a fresh face. 

Chris Paul, Devin Booker, Mikal Bridges and Deandre Ayton safely have their starting gigs locked in. 

Thus, we land at the power forward spot, where Jae Crowder currently occupies that space. 

Currently may not be used for the long haul this season, as he's been vocal on social media about wanting change and continuing his growth. 

CHANGE IS INEVITABLE.. GROWTH IS OPTIONAL.!! I BELIEVE ITS TIME FOR A CHANGE… I WANNA CONTINUE GROWING.!

— JAE CROWDER (@CJC9BOSS) August 1, 2022

Behind him is Cameron Johnson, who has impressed with his growth each season with the Suns and may finally be knocking on the doorstep of consistently starting each season. Dario Saric (coming off an ACL tear/meniscus surgery) should be able to assist, too. 

In Bleacher Report's most recent article that came up with trades to improve each team's starting lineup, Phoenix targeted the power forward position and acquired Harrison Barnes. 

Suns Land Harrison Barnes in Mock Trade

The Trade: Jae Crowder, Landry Shamet and 2023 first-round pick (top-10 protected) to Kings for Harrison Barnes

"The Suns stopped short of making major changes this summer, but in the NBA's highest tier, sometimes doing nothing is akin to a backward step.

"Should Phoenix believe that's happening—perhaps fueled by its swift and stunning collapse against Dallas in the conference semis—then it might feel some kind of shake-up is in order. Upgrading from Crowder to Barnes may not seem like the biggest jump, but the margins are so thin at the top that even a seemingly small upgrade can have a big effect.

"Barnes is more threatening as a shooter and shot-creator and at least as versatile on defense. If the trade improved Phoenix's championship chances by even half a percent, it would be worth the cost."

Barnes just turned 30-years-old in May and appeared in 77 games last season for the Sacramento Kings. He averaged 16.4 points (39.4% from three), 5.6 rebounds and 2.4 assists per night. 

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