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Phoenix Suns Current Roster: High Hopes In Their Big 3

By Fran Leiva,

15 hours ago

The Phoenix Suns had high hopes for their Big 3 of Bradley Beal, Devin Booker, and Kevin Durant, but their playoff run ended in disappointment with a first-round sweep. Despite this setback, the Suns haven't made any blockbuster moves this offseason and seem poised to rely on the same formula that led to their early exit.

So far, the Suns have focused on retaining key role players and making some strategic additions. They've re-signed Grayson Allen , Bol Bol, Royce O'Neale, and Damion Lee. However, they let Eric Gordon go to the Philadelphia 76ers and saw Drew Eubanks join the Utah Jazz. To fill these gaps, they signed Monte Morris and Mason Plumlee, and they added rookies Ryan Dunn and Oso Ighodaro via the draft. Additionally, Collin Gillespie, coming from the Denver Nuggets, and Jalen Bridges received two-way contracts.

With these moves, the Suns appear to be placing a big bet on their star trio while tweaking the supporting cast in hopes of a better outcome next season.

Point Guards

Bradley Beal, Monte Morris, Damion Lee

The Suns' point guard rotation for the upcoming season includes Bradley Beal, Monte Morris, and Damion Lee. This mix of talent is expected to provide a more structured and efficient offensive flow compared to last season.

Bradley Beal struggled last season, averaging just 18.2 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game. His performance was a significant letdown, partly due to injuries and inconsistent play. If the Suns are to improve, Beal needs to step up and deliver the star performance he's capable of. His lack of defensive prowess and the occasional poor shot selection didn't help the Suns last season, and this has to change if they want to go further in the playoffs.

Monte Morris is a new addition to the Suns, signing a one-year minimum-salary contract after playing for the Minnesota Timberwolves and Detroit Pistons last season. Morris averaged 5.0 points and 2.1 assists in 14.4 minutes per game with Minnesota. Known for his steady playmaking and low turnover rate, Morris provides the Suns with a reliable veteran presence at the point guard position. His experience and ability to run the offense will be critical, especially when Beal or Booker are off the floor.

Damion Lee rounds out the point guard rotation, offering depth and versatility. He last played NBA Basketball in the 2022-23 season and averaged 8.2 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game. While not a traditional point guard, his ability to handle the ball and contribute defensively adds value to the Suns' backcourt. Lee's experience and steady hand will be important in providing relief minutes and maintaining the team's offensive rhythm.

Shooting Guards

Devin Booker, Nassir Little, Ryan Dunn

Devin Booker leads the shooting guard position, joined by Nassir Little and rookie Ryan Dunn. Booker had another stellar season, averaging 27.1 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 6.9 assists per game. His scoring ability and playmaking were vital for the Suns, and he continued to be the team's leading offensive force. Booker's consistency and leadership on the court are critical for the Suns. His ability to score from anywhere and his relentless drive make him the cornerstone of this team.

Nassir Little provides athleticism and defensive capabilities. Last season after being traded by the Portland Trail Blazers, Little averaged 3.4 points, 1.7 rebounds, and 0.5 assists per game. He is expected to bring energy off the bench and help bolster the Suns' perimeter defense. His versatility allows him to guard multiple positions, which will be valuable for the Suns.

Ryan Dunn, drafted 28th overall, adds a fresh dynamic to the squad. In his sophomore year at Virginia, Dunn averaged 8.1 points, 6.9 rebounds, 2.3 blocks, and 1.3 steals per game. Known for his exceptional defensive skills, Dunn's defense can be a game-changer, potentially earning him significant minutes as he develops. His energy and tenacity on the defensive end will be crucial in providing the Suns with a spark off the bench. Dunn's offensive game is still developing, but his defensive prowess makes him a valuable asset for the team.

Small Forwards

Grayson Allen, Royce O’Neale, Jalen Bridges

Grayson Allen, Royce O'Neale, and Jalen Bridges form the core of the Suns' small forward rotation. Grayson Allen, who had an impressive season, re-signed with the Suns on a four-year, $70 million extension . Last season, Allen averaged 13.5 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game, shooting an outstanding 46.1% from beyond the arc. His shooting and defensive versatility make him a key piece for the Suns moving forward.

Royce O'Neale, another critical re-signing, brings a robust defensive presence and reliable three-point shooting to the team. Last season, O'Neale averaged 7.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game while shooting 37.% from three-point range. His ability to guard multiple positions and knock down open shots provides the Suns with much-needed versatility on both ends of the floor.

Jalen Bridges, signed to a two-way contract, adds depth and potential. While still developing, Bridges' athleticism and defensive potential make him an intriguing prospect. His ability to contribute in limited minutes will be crucial as he adjusts to the NBA level and works to earn more significant playing time.

Power Forwards

Kevin Durant, Bol Bol, David Roddy

Kevin Durant , Bol Bol, and David Roddy make up the Suns' power forward rotation. Kevin Durant, one of the league's premier players, had a stellar 2023-24 season, averaging 27.1 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game. His efficiency was evident with shooting splits of 52.3% from the field, 41.3% from three-point range, and 85.6% from the free-throw line. Durant's presence on the floor commands attention from opposing defenses, opening up opportunities for his teammates. His versatility, length, and scoring ability make him a matchup nightmare for any defender.

Bol Bol, who was re-signed this offseason, adds a unique skill set to the Suns' lineup. Last season, Bol averaged 5.2 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 0.6 blocks per game. His length and shot-blocking ability provide a defensive boost, while his perimeter skills allow him to stretch the floor. Bol's potential to make big plays and his versatility make him a valuable asset off the bench.

David Roddy, acquired in a trade with the Memphis Grizzlies, is expected to add depth to the Suns' frontcourt. In his rookie season, Roddy averaged 6.5 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game. Known for his physicality and hustle, Roddy's ability to contribute on both ends of the floor will be crucial for the Suns. His energy and toughness make him a reliable option off the bench.

Centers

Jusuf Nurkic, Mason Plumlee, Oso Ighodaro

Jusuf Nurkic, Mason Plumlee, and Oso Ighodaro round out the Suns' center rotation. Jusuf Nurkic had a productive 2023-24 season, averaging 10.9 points, 11.0 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game. Nurkic's presence in the paint provides the Suns with much-needed interior defense and rebounding. His ability to protect the rim and facilitate from the high post adds a different dimension to the Suns' offense. However, Nurkic needs to maintain consistency and avoid injuries to be a reliable cornerstone in the Suns' frontcourt.

Mason Plumlee, signed this offseason, brings veteran experience and solid defensive capabilities. Last season, Plumlee averaged 5.3 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game. Known for his rebounding and shot-blocking, Plumlee will provide valuable minutes off the bench and help anchor the Suns' defense when Nurkic is resting.

Oso Ighodaro, a rookie from Marquette, was signed to a 4-year contract. In his senior year, Ighodaro averaged 11.3 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game. His athleticism and shot-blocking ability make him a promising prospect. While still developing his offensive game, Ighodaro's defensive skills and potential make him an exciting addition to the Suns' roster.

This center rotation, featuring Nurkic's steady presence, Plumlee's veteran experience, and Ighodaro's potential, aims to provide the Suns with the interior defense and rebounding necessary to compete against the league's best teams.

Can The Suns Have A Comeback Season And Be Real Contenders?

The Phoenix Suns' performance in the 2023-24 season left fans with mixed feelings. Finishing with a 49-33 record, they secured the 6th seed in the Western Conference but were swept in the first round of the playoffs by the Minnesota Timberwolves . This outcome has sparked discussions about the team's future and its strategy moving forward.

Financially, the Suns are in a tough spot. They have committed a massive portion of their salary cap to their Big 3—Bradley Beal, Devin Booker, and Kevin Durant. This trio alone will account for $150.6 million next season, which overshoots the expected salary cap of $141 million. This situation is compounded by the fact that the Suns are over the luxury tax and second apron, which severely limits their ability to make roster moves. With such financial constraints, the Suns also face the challenge of not having any first-round picks for the next six years due to previous trades, limiting their ability to rebuild through the draft if things don't pan out with the current roster.

The Suns' front office faces a dilemma. They need to find a way to enhance the roster within their financial limitations, possibly focusing on bringing in a veteran point guard and a defensive wing to add depth and functionality to the team. However, the options are limited due to the cap situation and restrictions on trading. The expectations for this year are to make adjustments around the edges, possibly bringing in role players who can contribute significantly while staying within the financial constraints.

Given these challenges, the Suns' ability to bounce back and be genuine contenders will heavily depend on the health and performance of their star players and how well the front office navigates the limited flexibility they have to improve the team. It's a tricky path, but with strategic moves and a bit of luck, the Suns could potentially turn things around.