News Suns Team Notes

[Phoenix Suns]

Inside the Suns: Jordan Ott, Rasheer Fleming, Khaman Maluach, Jamaree Bouyea

Welcome to Inside the Suns, your weekly deep down analysis of the current Phoenix Suns team. Each week the Fantable – a round table of Bright Siders – give their takes on the Suns’ latest issues and news.

Fantable Questions of the Week​

Q1: What are your thoughts on Jordan Ott’s coaching?​

Ashton: I was among the skeptical ones on the board that bringing in a rookie head coach would lead to disaster.

Wow, was I wrong on that.

The fact is, the release of two NBA veterans cleaned up the locker room, and after multiple coaches failed to tame the previous player regimes, and a lot of cost as well, it turns out the young players want to play and build their resumes for the next contract. Who would have thought?

If the board is looking for a grade, give him an “A” for developing the young talent. And this while lucking into veterans Brooks and Mark Williams showing fine form.

CG has been revolutionary in Ott’s system.

OldAz: This has been far and away the thing I am most excited about so far this season. The last two seasons with bigger-name coaches and a team full of stars, it seems like they just rolled the ball out there and expected to win. This season, it is all about grit, hustle, and effort. Certainly, the players have a role in that, and Dillon Brooks’ presence hasn’t hurt, but you have to give most of the credit to Jordan Ott for quickly installing a philosophy on both ends of the court and getting every player to buy in.

Rod: I give Ott the lion’s share of credit for the success the Suns have had so far. Not only has he built a system that best utilizes the talent he was given, but he’s also gotten all of the players to buy into his vision and play with an enthusiasm that I haven’t seen from a Suns team since they made it to the Finals back in 2021. There have been a few times where I have been puzzled by his rotation decisions, but then they have, 99% of the time, worked out well, which quickly reminded me why he’s coaching in the NBA, and I’m not.

Q2: Should Ott be giving Fleming and Maluach more than garbage time minutes?​

Ashton: A lot of the board comments like Fleming and KM. I still think they need to prove their chops in the G-League.

My answer is no. Williams is holding up fine and giving Gobert issues in the last Minnesota game. I would break glass in an emergency to bring Maluach up. With Nick Richards supposedly being given the “trade eye”, that is me saying that, I would actually give him more run.

Fleming is a different story. It really depends on how much Brooks is hurt.

OldAz: I don’t think so. The team is playing well now and competing, and both players are getting some time to develop in the G League. Ott can continue to wait until they earn those precious minutes.

However, Fleming has shown in the brief minutes that he has gotten that he is pretty close. I think that time is coming fast when you have to give him 4 to 5 minutes a game. The problem is if he struggles, you have to give him room to work through it and not feel like he failed and is back nailed to the bench. Either way, it looks like Flemming will be earning these minutes by the end of the year.

As for KM, I don’t think he’s anywhere near ready, and the center rotation is already pretty tough to crack. As down as I was on Oso to start the year, he has proven to be a valuable cog off the bench, and Mark Williams has been one of their best players all year long and deserves every minute he can be on the floor. Richards is still more developed than KM, and he can barely crack 5 to 7 minutes a game the last week or so.

Rod: No, at least not at this time. For now, getting them plenty of court time with the Valley Suns is more important than minutes with the big team until they’ve proven that they deserve them. Yes, development yada, yada, yada…important…yada, yada, yada.

While these guys will hopefully have a big impact on the Suns’ future, they aren’t the only guys on the roster that fall under that category. Playing them when they haven’t actually earned minutes could send a bad message to everyone else, i.e., we’re not that concerned about winning now. I’m thinking that would not be good for morale, nor encourage people to continue playing as hard as they have been.

Voita: As I edit this piece, I felt the need to slide in and add my two cents. I agree with most of what the panel says. The Suns are in a good place, some might even call it the ideal setup for both short-term growth and long-term development with this group.

I still want more Fleming, and I would not mind seeing it now. Wings usually do not take as long to develop as bigs. Nigel Hayes-Davis gives us nothing on the floor except short-armed shots that clang off the rim. I would rather see the burst of athleticism Fleming brings, mixed with his defensive instincts. It feels like the right time to start sharpening that knife in the drawer.

Q3: What are your thoughts on Jamaree Bouyea?​

Ashton: He needs to go to court and submit a name change form to Bouyea!

Outside of Collin Gillespie, Jamaree Ray-Shaun Bouyea is one of the most surprising replacements at the guard position that I have witnessed.

Make the argument in the comments, but after the Boston Celtics as the most surprising team, it has to be the Suns. And this is predicated on Suns best guards sitting. With injury, while the “no-names” have stepped up.

Final note. Silas (NCDaveACC), you expected a bit of rubbing when a certain college basketball team made it to Number 1 over Duke, how do you like us now?

OldAz: He has been an amazing find on a two-way deal. His shooting fits in quite nicely, and he has a good all-around skill set that just seems at home with how this team plays. It will be interesting to see how much time he gets when Booker and Green are back, since he is obviously suited as a guard only, and he is not going to take minutes from Gillespie or Allen. However, you have to anticipate that someone is always going to be nicked up a little bit, and he seems like the perfect player to fit into any available guard minutes they can find.

Rod: Bouyea is just more proof that Brian Gregory actually knows what he is doing. The guy is very good and, even though many scoffed at waiving F/C CJ Huntley to add another guard, Bouyea has proven to be someone who can contribute now, regardless of his position. Sure, the Suns do need someone suited to play at PF but, if a good PF prospect isn’t available, that shouldn’t keep you from adding a quality player at another position…especially if it can be done using a two-way contract. Drafting based on positional need over talent level rarely works, so why make the same mistake with free agent signings?

When Booker and Green return, there won’t be many minutes for him but I think sending him to play with the Valley Suns then could be a plus in Fleming’s and Maluach’s development by upgrading their point guard play.

As always, many thanks to our Fantable members for all their extra effort this week!

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Quotes of the Week​

“Collin, he’s one of a kind. At first he never talked. Now he talk a lot.” – Royce O’Neale

“I was confident he was going to knock them down. Tough, hard-nosed guy.” – Mark Williams on Collin Gillespie FTs with 6.3 seconds left in Suns 108-105 win over Minnesota

“His energy is super infectious. He makes you want play harder. He’s bringing that intensity every single night. His competitive edge is something you want on a team.” – Mark Williams on Dillon Brooks

“That group is a tough, kind of nasty at times, defensive-minded group.” – Jordan Ott on starting 4th against Minnesota with Gillespie, Bouyea, Goodwin, Dunn and Ighodaro

“We expect to win.” – Collin Gillespie on the Suns’ mentality

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Suns Trivia/History​

Every time someone says “Mark Williams saved my life,” just know that we completely understand.@MarkWilliams is finally home. pic.twitter.com/PXnETOuKgA

— Shane Young (@YoungNBA) December 9, 2025

On December 16, 2017, with Devin Booker sidelined with an injury, the 10-20 Suns defeated the 17-12 Minnesota Timberwolves in Minnesota 108-106 in a game where the Suns’ bench outscored their starters 69-39. Dragan Bender and Troy Daniels led the Suns in scoring with 17 points each. Isaiah Canaan added 15 points, and his 7 assists equaled the total number of assists by the starting 5. Alex Len added a double-double with 12 points and 19 rebounds. T.J. Warren led the starters with 15 points on a 4 of 14 (28.6%) shooting night while making 7 of 8 from the FT line.

The starting unit went 0-7 from three while the bench was 11-17 (64.7%). Every single bench player’s FG% was .600 or above, while only Josh Jackson (4 of 9, 44.4%) shot above 30% for the starters. On this night, the Suns’ bench led the starters in every single statistical category except offensive rebounds (7-6 in favor of the starters).

On December 17, 2018, the Suns traded Trevor Ariza to the Washington Wizards for Kelly Oubre Jr. and Austin Rivers after a proposed 3-team trade between Phoenix, Washington, and Memphis fell through due to a misunderstanding as to whether the Suns would receive MarShon Brooks or Dillon Brooks (whom they wanted) from Memphis.

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This Week’s Game Schedule​

Sunday, Dec 14 – Suns vs LA Lakers (6:00 pm)
Thursday, Dec 18 – Suns vs Golden State Warriors (7:00 pm)

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This Week’s Valley Suns Game Schedule​

Monday, Dec 15 – Valley Suns @ Salt Lake City Stars (7:00 pm)
Tuesday, Dec 16 – Valley Suns @ Salt Lake City Stars (7:00 pm) ESPN+

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Important Future Dates​

Jan. 5 – 10-day contracts may now be signed
Jan. 10 – All NBA contracts are guaranteed for the remainder of the season
Feb. 5 – Trade deadline (3:00 pm ET)
Feb. 13-15 – 2026 NBA All-Star weekend in Los Angeles, CA
March 1 – Playoff eligibility waiver deadline
March 28 – NBA G League Regular Season ends
March 31 – 2026 NBA G League Playoffs begin
April 12 – Regular season ends (All 30 teams play)
April 13 – Rosters set for NBA Playoffs 2026 (3 p.m. ET)
April 14-17 – SoFi NBA Play-In Tournament
April 18 – NBA Playoffs begin

Source: https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/...young-core-breakout-bouyea-gillespie-williams

 

[Phoenix Suns]

The likelihood of each Phoenix Sun getting traded before the trade deadline

With December 15th rapidly approaching, a majority of the free agents will be able to be traded, and discussions ahead of this deadline will pick up. With the deadline itself being under two months away, happening on the sixth of February. This means rumors will start to swirl around the league on who is available, and possible deals can happen. So, with all that being said, I wanted to look at each player on this Suns team and put them in a tier based on their likelihood of being moved before the season ends.

There will be four tiers for these players, and they are listed here.

• Not Happening
• 1% Chance
• Possibly
• Names I’d Look Out For

All right, with all that being said, let’s get this started and look at the roster. The Suns have 17 players on the roster. They have 14 guaranteed roster spots and three two-way players, and yes, two-way players will be evaluated too because they can be traded.

An example of this occurred last year when former Sun Jared Butler was traded from the Washington Wizards to the Philadelphia 76ers at the trade deadline for Reggie Jackson. The 76ers, who were tanking, wanted to take a flyer on a young piece and did with Butler on the two-way and converted him to a standard deal when he arrived. The Wizards then waived Reggie Jackson, leaving an open two-way spot.

With that being said, though, let’s dive into the first category

Not Happening​

This may be the largest pool of players because of the Suns’ overall success this season.

Jamaree Bouyea​

This would make sense, as he was just brought in on a two-way and has earned minutes in this rotation with the injuries. Similar to Collin Gillespie from last year, this could be the Suns’ diamond-in-the-rough player. They cannot trade him and need to see what he can do in a guaranteed spot here before moving him.

12/10/25 Bench Mob Player of the Day: Jamaree Bouyea

14 PTS (6/9 shooting)
2 3PM (2/3 shooting)
2 REB
6 AST
1 STL
1 BLK pic.twitter.com/P59wWwE2io

— Finn Kuehl (@finleykuehl) December 11, 2025

Koby Brea​

Brea would not be moved, as he was just selected in the last draft by this team. They felt he was the best shooter in college, and he has yet to prove that in the league with his limited play. Therefore, the development is still needed, and that means moving him makes no sense.

Isaiah Livers​

Livers is the final two-way player, and it does not make sense to move him either. When he’s been healthy, he’s been a solid scorer on the wing and could develop into a nice piece. Another two-way player who has gotten an opportunity in the rotation should not be moved, but a spot should be created for them.

Devin Booker​

Now that the two-way contracts are out of the way, let’s focus on the big dog in D Book. Clearly, they are not going ot be moving off of him. The franchise has stated multiple times that they are building around him and he is their guy. The recent extension he just got, which still hasn’t kicked in, shows that he is the definition of the Suns, and they are doing everything around him. So NO, he is not leaving, regardless of whether websites still have him in mock trades.

BREAKING: Phoenix Suns superstar Devin Booker has agreed to a two-year, $145 million maximum contract extension with the franchise through the 2029-30 season, the highest annual extension salary in NBA history, CAA’s Jessica Holtz and Melvin Booker told ESPN. pic.twitter.com/A5U5VPlSgx

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 10, 2025

Collin Gillespie​

Even if the front office dared to try this stunt, the fans would make sure their voices were heard. Arguably the fan favorite this year, Gillespie has deserved this appreciation in the Valley. Someone who was on a two-way and played due to injuries is single-handedly carrying a big chunk of this offense with the injuries to Devin Booker and Jalen Green. All while on a minimum contract, trying to prove his importance in this league. The Suns cannot lose him and will not, as he has become so valuable to them.

Mark Williams​

One of the significant offseason acquisitions is to shake up this team and bring out this new identity and culture. Williams has been such a breath of fresh air at the center position, something this team has been searching for since the fall of Deandre Ayton and his time here. Even with his limited minutes, he continues to get better during his short tenure here, saying this feels like home. With a statement like that, alongside his outstanding play, it only makes sense that he is a part of the now and long-term plans.

Khaman Maluach​

Similar to Brea, he was drafted by this team just a couple of months ago, and as a raw talent, he has yet to play much. Even if he has had a slower start, this is fine and not something to panic over. The Suns drafted him based on the potential of what he could be in this league, not on his ability to be an impact player in his rookie year. If that were the case, this team would have looked elsewhere, and it could be another reason why they traded for Mark Williams, anyway, insurance. He still has potential and can be someone for this team.

Rasheer Fleming​

Once again, a rookie they traded up to draft is not being moved before he has had a significant chance to show what he has got. The Suns have exceeded expectations, allowing Fleming more development time in the G League than in NBA minutes. That said, later in the season, if he continues to develop, he could work his way into a solid role off the bench with his great defensive instincts and three-ball.

Jordan Goodwin​

Goodwin has made himself a solid spot in this rotation in his return to Phoenix this year. After a solid year with the Lakers, he transitioned and plays a very similar role here. He has also been consistent on the offensive end, just as he was last year. His ability to hit a three-point shot (37%) this year has been practical, helping him in more ways than one. With his contract being a minimum deal as well, it does not make sense, as his value is worth more to this team than it is on the open market.

1% Chance​

Dillon Brooks​

You may think I am crazy putting Brooks here, but let me explain. Yes, he is the engine that keeps this Suns team going; he is always willing to fight and is the definition of what this team wants to be on both sides. That all being said, he has been super effective for this team and has also played up his value.

With no Booker and Green as of late, he has had to be the central part of this offense, and even with Booker, he was also doing it. I do not see this happening unless the Suns see a younger star out there who has low value. If the team wanted Brooks for that said star, maybe they would do it, but with how impactful Brooks has been, I do not see that happening

Ryan Dunn​

Similar to Brooks Dunn, he has been solid for this team as a defender and stepping up in his role. Last year, the rookie saw sporadic minutes, and this year he has at least a bigger role that he feels more comfortable in. I do not see the Suns moving him, as they still believe in a sophomore player, but there is one case I do see. That would be if the Suns were adding some win-now talent, keeping Brooks, and using Dunn as some filler, since they have minimal draft capital. Will the Suns put themselves in that position, though? Most likely not.

Oso Ighodaro​

If this were the first week of the season, fans would have a different outlook, but now Ighodaro has impressed in his new role. With Williams starting, Ighodaro can serve as the backup and thrive in a role better suited to him. He helps the Suns with his pass-first play and could be a piece they use to build around as this backup big.

The only reason I see him being traded is if he is used as a throw-in on a trade, but the Suns have another center who makes more sense for that.

Jalen Green​

He has yet to suit up for a full two games for the team. Therefore, the likelihood of him being moved is very slim. The Suns have no idea what he is or can be for this team. Why give up on that possibility to see what he can be?

Now, they have been good without him, which makes him expendable. Who is to say the player they get back fits better? Who is to say he won’t take away from another big star who is already here? This leads me to believe the Suns still want to bet on and believe in Green, at least for this year. The only way he gets moved is if it is a trade for another young player who is also injured, which I do not see happening before February.

Possibly​

Nigel Hayes-Davis​

This one was probably the hardest one for me to place. Hayes-Davis is back in the NBA after some dominant years overseas, trying to find a spot back here. So far for the Suns, he has been given the opportunities to do so, especially early on in the year.

Unfortunately for Hayes-Davis, a lot of what he does best and succeeds in does not show up in the stat sheet. This leaves fans to question his impact on this team and what he can really do. The reason I have him here is that they could move off him, especially if they want to develop a younger player (Fleming). I could also see them holding onto him, though, especially if he has little to no value to the association. He can be a veteran leader for this one year, before his contract expires, if that is the case.

Grayson Allen​

The most confusing contract on this roster for evaluating trade potential. Allen is on a contract of slightly less than $17 million this year, with increases over the next two years. With his contract being so high and teams being hindered by aprons, that is a primary reason he is possibly over another category.

Will teams see the value of Allen at this number and be willing to add it, or would they try to draft or sign a cheaper alternative? I also think Allen’s value to the Suns franchise and front office is higher than it is across the league. He is a solid starter, but on a championship-winning team, is that true six-man that gets you over that hump offensively? Will a team be willing to offer the right package for that, or will the Suns even be comfortable letting him go? Those questions keep him here.

Names I’d Look Out For​

Royce O’Neale​

O’Neale has been a valuable part of this team on both sides this year, so this one was hard to say definitely. If the Suns continue to be this hot team, then I think he has a chance of staying, but he does seem like one of the most movable players for many reasons.

One, he has been playing fantastically this year, shooting almost 41% from three and averaging 1.3 steals. Many teams around the league could use a veteran wing who is a switchable defender capable of playing either the three or four position.

Secondly, his contract is relatively minor compared to Allen’s, making only around $10 million for the next three years. All that, paired with the fact that the Suns already have a younger replacement on the roster, could make sense for them to trade O’Neale if the statements above align with their direction.

Nick Richards​

Last but certainly not least is the player I expect to be traded before the season ends, and that is Nick Richards. Richards was acquired by the Suns at the last trade deadline for Josh Okogie, a trade many fans, including me, thought the Suns had hit a slam dunk on. Only to find out Richards looked so great because of how horrendous this center rotation was last year.

Coming into this season with the acquisitions of Williams and Maluach, and with Ighodaro on the roster as well, it was known that the center room was crowded. This season, Richards has fallen to third in the rotation and only gets time in certain matchups or when Williams is out due to a back-to-back. With his contract only being $5 million and center being a position of need, it would make sense for them to move off him for anything this year.

To save money for their key extensions in Gillespie and Williams in the offseason, and also to get another piece or pick that could help down the line.

Centers expected to be available on the trade market include:

Nic Claxton
Robert Williams III
Nick Richards
Jonathan Isaac
Jusuf Nurkic

“Brooklyn's Nic Claxton is expected to generate incoming calls to the rebuilding Nets about Claxton's availability…Phoenix has made Nick… pic.twitter.com/U0wLuxIXej

— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) November 26, 2025

Final Thoughts​

I have no idea if I am right on any of these predictions, as it is all down to Brian Gregory and Mat Ishbia to determine what this team looks like. We put our faith in them this offseason, and look at what they have done so far to shake up everyone’s opinions of them. The outcries of Ishbia do not know what he is doing, and his best friends have now gone silent under the dominance of this Suns team. I believe from the beginning, and you should too, regardless of what moves are made this trade deadline!

Initial reactions to this Brian Gregory hiring

Everyone needs to calm down, he clearly is nervous and isn’t the best public speaker (neither am i) so I don’t fault him

I like how he addressed how he wants to build this team really diving into the draft is critical

Alignment!

— BruceVeliz (@BruceVeliz) May 6, 2025

Source: https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/...mors-move-likelihood-roster-analysis-december

 

[Phoenix Suns]

Ryan Dunn has to trust the process

Ryan Dunn doesn’t enter the NBA as a classic “3&D.” He’s more of a “D&??,” an old-school pure defender with an offensive ecosystem still under construction. This asymmetry makes his study fascinating: you immediately see what he can become, but also what needs to be sculpted.

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Early-season strengths​

What stands out right from his first minutes is his reading speed. He anticipates drives like a veteran, cuts angles without overplaying, and allows the Suns to be more aggressive on-ball because he cleans up mistakes behind them. His ability to track two actions at once, both the ball and the weakside, is atypical for his age.

Le volume de jeu de Ryan Dunn pic.twitter.com/fhKpxHOOlO

— P| #WorldBFree (@PanoTheCreator) December 12, 2025

His transition defense is already highly developed. He sprints back faster than the ball, cuts passing lanes, and turns dead possessions into neutral ones. Phoenix hasn’t had a player of this type since Mikal Bridges: long, mobile, disciplined, unfazed by screens. Both belong to the rare club of +1% BLK% and +2.5% STL% this season. Statistically, Ryan Dunn sits in the same category as OG Anunoby, Jalen Suggs, or Keon Ellis.

– Défense agressive sur Pick & sur KD
– Il casse la ligne de passe
– STL et fastbreak pic.twitter.com/0WghwcnTcY

— P| #WorldBFree (@PanoTheCreator) December 12, 2025

On the boards, he stabilizes the lineup despite being a wing, with 5 rebounds per game (just behind Mark Williams and Royce O’Neale). Defensive rebounding isn’t his primary focus, as he often is one of the first to leak out in transition. Where he truly stands out is on the offensive glass: 1.9 offensive rebounds per game and an incredible 8% OREB% for his position. It’s a discreet factor (though anyone watching sees how hard he fights nightly), but a major one.

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Early-season weaknesses​

Where Dunn still drags the team into a shadow zone is offense. His shooting mechanics aren’t disastrous, but they’re not yet adaptable. Too many slightly forced catch-and-shoot attempts; nearly 70% of his threes are open looks, yet only 32% accuracy on catch and shoot. That’s very weak for a player aiming at a starting role, especially since he doesn’t shine in other offensive areas either: 15th and 10th percentile this season in “Paint shooting & Midrange Talent” and “Movement Scoring Impact.”

pic.twitter.com/kO2KHTmukt

— P| #WorldBFree (@PanoTheCreator) December 12, 2025

He lacks variety in angles, offers little threat off-ball or with the ball, which explains his low offensive efficiency: ≈105 PSA, 53 TS%. That limits the lineup combinations the coach can use and, therefore, his overall playing time.

His handle is functional, not creative. In straight-line attacks, it works. But when he needs to manipulate a defender, slow down, change direction…you see the upper body and hips aren’t yet synchronized. He’s a young player who needs volume, repetitions, and above all, a framework where his mistakes are accepted.

L'exemple parfait pour montrer la mauvaise gestion de son corps et de l'espace :

– l'idée de la fixation est bonne mais trop mal exécuté, il vient s'empaler dans le défenseur

– la passe est vraiment mauvaise, à rebonds, en dessous du bassin, sur le coté pic.twitter.com/Yz3csvaSDa

— P| #WorldBFree (@PanoTheCreator) December 12, 2025

Dunn can also over-help at times. His defensive instinct, if miscalibrated, pushes him to over-anticipate and leave corners open. A quality that turns into a flaw when discipline is still fresh.

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Ryan Dunn embodies the archetype of the modern defender: instinctive, versatile, and already making an impact. His profile highlights a defense that can reach very high levels, but his offensive arsenal is still embryonic. The Suns’ challenge will be to give him the time and structure to turn his limits into weapons, without restraining his defensive energy. If he manages to stabilize his shot and enrich his off-ball game, he can become an indispensable starter. He is at the crossroads of the legacies of Mikal Bridges and Dillon Brooks.

Source: https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/...engths-weaknesses-development-offense-defense

 

[Phoenix Suns]

Suns mentioned as “potential suitor” for Domantas Sabonis

The Phoenix Suns have been loosely linked to Domantas Sabonis for several years now.

Yesterday, Jake Weinbach relayed a report from Sam Amick suggesting that the Suns’ interest has not waned.

The Suns and Wizards have been mentioned as potential suitors for Domantas Sabonis, in addition to the Bulls, per @sam_amick.

If Phoenix were to pursue Sabonis, a trade package would likely revolve around Jalen Green and Mark Williams. Washington could offer expiring salary,… https://t.co/8hC9CXBZi4

— Jake Weinbach (@JWeinbachNBA) December 12, 2025

“Teams like Washington, the Phoenix Suns, and Chicago have shown significant interest in the past and are still believed to be on his short list of possible suitors, but Sabonis is prepared to remain in a Kings jersey for the foreseeable future.” — Sam Amick in The Athletic’s NBA trade talk: What I’m hearing about piece.

Amick adds: “If the Kings (6-19) continue down this losing track, there could be a payoff for all that pain in the form of their 2026 first-round draft pick. AJ Dybantsa, anyone?“

Now, the language of “prior links” and “short-list of suitors” aren’t exactly ringing endorsements for anything imminent. Especially after it was followed up by Sabonis preparing to remain in a Kings jersey for the foreseeable future.

Sabonis, 29, is a three-time All-Star and has finished in the top 10 of MVP voting twice in his 10-year NBA career. He has battled some injuries this season, only appearing in 11 games while averaging 17.2 points, 12.3 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 1.2 steals per game in 33.2 minutes per game.

Domantas has 2 years left on his contract after this season, at $45.5 and $48.6 million per year, respectively, before entering free agency in 2028-29.

Any deal involving Sabonis’s contract makes Jalen Green the piece that would have to be involved, along with at least a couple of others, for salary purposes. Mark Williams was mentioned along with Green, and that’s a bit too rich for my liking. Sacramento would likely ask for another core young piece and a pick in addition to whatever the Suns package with Green.

Yes, the Suns have a good thing going for them right now. Yes, Jalen Green looked excellent in his debut. I don’t think that should stop the Suns from looking to make upgrades or improvements on the roster. They are deep at the guard position right now, and we haven’t seen what they all look like when healthy together.

That said, if it’s Green AND Williams, I’m out. If they can swing something for just Green and filler pieces… that’s a whole lot more interesting. Williams-Sabonis-Brooks-Booker-Gillespie with Allen off the bench is a bit more of a balanced roster than they currently have constructed. It is a lot of money to commit to a Booker-Sabonis pairing, but I don’t think it’s anything to scoff at, even if you are attached to this group.

Phoenix has already been connected to Jonathan Kuminga during the offseason, though that interest has faded, according to John Gambadoro.

It’s unlikely the Suns make any major deals while the vibes are this high, but crazier things have happened.

What do you think, Suns fans? Should Phoenix pursue Domantas Sabonis or hold on to this roster and see how they look once they’re all on the court together?

Source: https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/...oned-as-potential-suitor-for-domantas-sabonis

 

[Phoenix Suns]

An online silent auction adds a new layer to Bright Side Night

Every year, as a community, we try to do our part to give back to those who need it most. That has been the mission behind Dave King’s Bright Side Night for the past decade. Once again, we are stepping up and doing what we can to send as many kids as possible to see the Phoenix Suns take on the Brooklyn Nets on January 27. Thus far we’ve raised over $7,000!

This year, we are trying something a little different.

We have worked with the Suns to make sure the tickets are there. Now we are adding another layer. We are hosting a silent auction featuring some genuinely cool Phoenix Suns memorabilia. An Alvan Adams signed and graded card. A signed photo of Charles Barkley. And several other unique items.

The auction will run online from December 15 through December 28, and all proceeds will go directly toward Dave King’s Bright Side Night.

BIG news for Dave King’s Bright Side Night!

From Dec 15–29 we’re running an online silent auction loaded with killer Suns memorabilia. Every dollar goes toward sending underprivileged kids to a Suns game.

Let’s make it the biggest year yet! pic.twitter.com/7bNJkzj4bk

— Bright Side of the Sun (@BrightSideSun) December 12, 2025

Yeah, the tweet says until the 29th. It’ll end EOD on the 28th.

If you have ever wondered what is in it for you, this is it. You get a chance to bid on rare Suns memorabilia while knowing the proceeds are going to a cause that matters. Those funds will help send underprivileged kids to experience a Suns game at Dave King’s Bright Side Night in January.

Please follow the link below to check out the items that will be available. The auction goes live at 8AM on Monday.

As always, thank you for continuing to support this incredible effort as we all do our part to keep Dave King’s mission alive.

Source: https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/...lent-auction-phoenix-suns-memorabilia-charity

 

[Phoenix Suns]

Suns claw back from 20 down but fall short in a mucky game

Games like the Suns’ loss to the Lakers on Sunday night are the ones that punch you right in the gut. They feel mucky. They feel gross. For a Phoenix team that lives on rhythm and disruption, this was one of those nights where it felt like the game was taken out of their hands by a whistle that never loosened up.

That is part of the deal with this team. It is going to happen from time to time, especially when you play a franchise that has made a living off preferential treatment. Only the Orlando Magic attempt more free throws than the Lakers do on a nightly basis, so that reality has to be baked into the scouting report. Play aggressive. But play smart.

Lakers out here going full Ivan Drago on the Suns while Phoenix gets whistled for breathing too loud. Feels familiar

— Suns JAM Session Podcast (@SunsJAM) December 15, 2025

You can point to a lot of moments if you want to.

Just a minute into the game, Dillon Brooks picks up a technical after responding to contact that LeBron James initiated. On a night where Tyler Ford seemed more interested in reviewing plays than calling them correctly in real time, that one probably deserved another look. You can point to the free-throw parade at the end of the first half.

Ridiculous end of a half: https://t.co/lIzHkscMPv pic.twitter.com/NDmZ8GhDFM

— John Voita, III (@DarthVoita) December 15, 2025

You can point to LeBron running into Brooks on a late three and getting a pass. In a one-possession game, you can always find a million reasons why a team lost or why it should have won.

What cannot be ignored is what happened in the middle of the game. The Suns went eight full minutes without scoring. Eight. The Lakers ripped off a 24-0 run during that stretch. That is where the damage was done.

And yet, Phoenix still fought back. Down 20 in the fourth quarter, they clawed their way back into it. They put themselves in a position to steal the game anyway. Sure, it would have helped if the whistle leaned their way even a little. Sure, it would have helped if the Lakers had not shot 43 free throws. But that is the NBA. And when you are playing the Lakers, you already know how this usually goes.

Oh, and the Suns went 0-2 in games dictated by NBA Cup group play. Sure hope these two games don’t come back and bite ‘em in the ass come April…

Bright Side Baller Season Standings​

Jamaree Bouyea was one of the few players who brought consistent fight on Tuesday against the Thunder. For that effort, he earns his second Bright Side Baller of the season. 25 games in, no one has truly separated themselves, and that is what happens when a team is banged up.

Bright Side Baller Nominees​

Game 26 against the Lakers. Here are your nominees:

Devin Booker

27 points (7-of-17, 0-of-5 3PT, 13-of-16 FT), 6 rebounds, 7 assists, 1 steal, 1 block, 1 turnover, +4 +/-

Mark Williams

20 points (9-of-10), 6 rebounds, 1 assist, 3 blocks, 1 turnover, +14 +/-

Dillon Brooks

18 points (6-of-9, 4-of-7 3PT), 1 rebound, 0 assists, 1 steal, 3 turnovers, 5 fouls, +12 +/-

Grayson Allen

13 points (4-of-11, 1-of-5 3PT), 2 rebounds, 7 assists, 3 steals, 2 turnovers, -4 +/-

Royce O’Neale

12 points (4-of-7, 4-of-7 3PT), 5 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal, 2 turnovers, -23 +/-

Collin Gillespie

10 points (4-of-9, 2-of-5 3PT), 3 rebounds, 6 assists, 1 steal, 1 turnover, -2 +/-

---

The polls are open!

Source: https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/...25-game-breakdown-free-throws-rhythm-comeback

 

[Phoenix Suns]

The best and worst of Dillon Brooks showed up in the same night

When it comes to Dillon Brooks, you take the whole thing. That’s the mental contract you sign when you watch him play. He’s intense, wired hot, always carrying a chip on his shoulder. That edge has fueled his career. It keeps him competitive, keeps him locked in, and makes life miserable for whoever he’s guarding.

About 85% of the time, you love what Dillon brings.

His edge has become part of the Suns’ identity this season. They are a team sitting at 14-12 and holding down the seventh seed in the Western Conference despite Jalen Green playing 5 quarters and a plethora of differing injuries to their lineup. Not even two months into the season, and they’ve already knocked down nearly half of the 30.5 wins Vegas projected. That’s not an accident. Dillon Brooks helped change the culture. He reinforced what Brian Gregory set out to build over the summer.

Add in the fact that he’s averaging 21.6 points per game, which is 3.2 more than any season of his career, and that 85% looks pretty damn good.

Dillon Brooks of the @Suns is one of three players in NBA history to put up at least 250 points, 30 made three-pointers and 20 steals in his first dozen games with a team.

He joins Luka Doncic (Lakers) and Paul George (Thunder). pic.twitter.com/UyNJI5dMHL

— OptaSTATS (@OptaSTATS) November 26, 2025

Then there’s the other 15%.

The fouls that don’t need to happen. The over-aggression that leads to silly stoppages. The heat check threes from a guy shooting 32.2% from deep. That’s Dillon being Dillon, and most nights you live with it.

Last night pushed things further than that. Frustrating is the right word. Not inexcusable, but irresponsible fits too.

Still, he helped light the fuse that pulled the Suns back into the game. That’s the Dillon Brooks you appreciate. He went 4-of-5 from the field in the fourth quarter, 3-of-4 from three, 11 points when the game needed teeth. That lives firmly in the 85%.

Part of the reason the Suns were staring at a 20-point hole in the fourth quarter was simple, however. Dillon Brooks wasn’t on the floor. He had played himself into foul trouble.

He was so locked in on baiting LeBron James that he picked up an offensive foul trying to back LeBron down with 10 minutes left in the third. When Brooks checked out with his fifth foul, the Suns were up 67-66. When he checked back in with 9:56 left in the game, they were down 91-77. During that stretch without Brooks on the floor, the Lakers rattled off 24 straight points. The Suns didn’t score for eight full minutes of game time.

That’s the 15% you hate. Not because of effort. Because he can remove himself from the game by letting the intensity tip into recklessness.

But the truly irresponsible part came later. After the Suns clawed all the way back. After Brooks drilled a massive three with 12 seconds left to put Phoenix up 114-113. That should have been the moment. Instead, he couldn’t help himself. He thought he was fouled, so he went straight at LeBron, chest to chest, even though he already had a technical. One he earned a minute and 24 seconds into the game for jawing with the same guy.

Lmao Dillon Brooks man pic.twitter.com/8LAcKTKJSl

— Shabazz (@ShowCaseShabazz) December 15, 2025

He hits the biggest shot of the night, a shot that could swing the game, and immediately puts it at risk. That’s the 15%.

For everything Dillon Brooks brings to this team, and there is a lot, he has to be better in those moments. Control the emotion. Run to your teammates. Celebrate the shot. You just capped a huge comeback. So what if LeBron bumped you? Go huddle up. Go lock back in. Go figure out how to keep these guys from scoring again.

This is the part that drives people insane. But it also has to be a growth moment. You can be LeBron’s nemesis if you want. You just can’t put that above the team. On a night where Brooks was arguably the best player the Suns had, we didn’t get enough of him. Not because of talent. Because he couldn’t get out of his own head. That has to change.

This is where the line has to be drawn. The Suns need the edge, they need the snarl, they need the version of Dillon Brooks that drags games into the mud and makes stars uncomfortable. But they also need him on the floor. Availability matters. Awareness matters. Moments like that are where good players separate themselves from players who actually help you win.

You already hit the shot. You already swung the game. Now finish the job. The 85% only works if the 15% stops hijacking the biggest possessions of the night. If Brooks wants to be a tone setter for a team with real ambitions, this is the step. Same fire. Better control. Team first.

Source: https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/...roblem-discipline-emotion-lebron-game-moments

 

[Phoenix Suns]

7 Days of Sun, Week 8: What Phoenix showed in a week that offered no favors

Well, that was a roller coaster of a week. The Phoenix Suns walk away 1-2. Both losses came in games shaped by NBA Cup group play. I have been clear about how I feel about the NBA Cup, especially the knockout round games counting toward the regular season. I will spare you another rant. It is behind us, at least until April.

So what did we learn this week? Maybe not much that is new. This felt less like discovery and more like reinforcement. A reminder of things we already know about this team.

Phoenix went into Minnesota without Devin Booker and won anyway. Not on talent. On effort, connectivity, communication, and resiliency. Then came Oklahoma City, a Thunder team that seemed to remember some comments Booker made after an earlier four-point loss. Phoenix got the full force of that response and did not have the firepower to withstand it.

"The secret is out. They do speed you up. They play aggressive. They'll grab, they'll hold, but it's never like when you're in a shooting position. It's always on the handle or on your drives when they get away with it."

Devin Booker on Thunder defense as Suns committed 20… pic.twitter.com/E27MYSv0Tz

— Duane Rankin (@DuaneRankin) November 29, 2025

That game underscored one thing: the Suns missed Devin Booker. His efficiency numbers might not be where they have been in past seasons, but his presence matters. He steadies the floor, and he gives the team a place to land when things start to tilt. Even so, it is hard to imagine many teams surviving a Thunder group that angry on that night.

Then there was the Lakers game. Whistle heavy. Choppy. And still, down 20 in the fourth quarter, Phoenix rallied and took a late lead. It did not end the way they wanted, but the fight was real.

So again, this week felt like a confirmation of identity. The schedule tightens over the next three games, and it will test them. After that, the pressure eases, and that foundation they have built should start turning into a few more wins.

At 14-12, sitting in the seventh seed in the Western Conference through the first third of the season, the lesson is familiar: this team competes. Every night. And for that reason, we keep watching.

---

Week 8 Record: 1-2​

@ Minnesota Timberwolves, W, 108-105​

• Possession Differential: +0.7
• Turnover Differential: -4
• Offensive Rebounding Differential: +1

Down Booker and Jalen Green, on the road, in a loud Minnesota gym with the Peacock cameras rolling, the Suns pulled a logic-defying win. Phoenix trailed for only 1:21, then survived a white knuckle finish.

@ Oklahoma City Thunder, L, 135-89​

• Possession Differential: +2.3
• Turnover Differential: +6
• Offensive Rebounding Differential: +1

The Suns’ NBA Cup adventure ended in a 49-point faceplant. Good group play earned Phoenix a quarterfinal date with an Oklahoma City buzzsaw that looks historically dangerous, and the result was over by halftime. You can sell it as iron sharpening iron, but this felt more like a scheduling tax.

vs. Los Angeles Lakers, L, 116-114​

• Possession Differential: -1.9
• Turnover Differential: -2
• Offensive Rebounding Differential: -14

Sunday night in Los Angeles was one of those games that leaves a bad taste in your mouth. The Suns, a team built on rhythm and chaos, got mucky, slowed down by whistles that never let them breathe. Still, down 20 in the fourth, they clawed back, proving fight matters even when the deck is stacked.

---

Inside the Possession Game​

• Weekly Possession Differential: +1.1
• Weekly Turnover Differential: 0
• Offensive Rebounding Differential: -12
• Year-to-Date Over/Under .500: +2

It wasn’t Phoenix’s possession game that cost them this past week. It was their shooting. They were 25th in the league in shooting during Week 8, hitting 44.5% from the field and 34.7% from three. On top of that, they struggled to hold the ball, ranking 26th in the league with 16.7 turnovers. It is a reminder that winning possessions doesn’t automatically translate to winning games. They also ranked 28th in the league with a 45.5% rebounding percentage, which shows there is room for improvement when it comes to crashing the boards.

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Week 9 Preview​

It’s a short week for Phoenix while the rest of the league pauses to reset after the NBA Cup, with the final set for Tuesday. Everyone has to wait for that to finish.

For Phoenix, it’s just two games this week. Thursday at home against the Golden State Warriors, and Saturday on the road against the same team. These games carry extra weight. The Warriors sit just below the Suns in the standings at 13-14, 1.5 games back. How Phoenix handles this pair will matter for their position in the Western Conference.

We’ll see how it goes, shall we?

Source: https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/...k-8-recap-nba-cup-losses-lakers-oklahoma-city

 

[Phoenix Suns]

The Suns must stay focused during the OKC era

The December 10th loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder was not fun. It was a 49-point blowout, and the good guys couldn’t even crack 90 on the scoreboard. But when there is an all-time great team in the league, rarely does anyone else get to have fun.

When your team is in the middle of one of the worst decades in franchise history, it is not fun to watch a team that just won 73 games add Kevin Durant.

When you are watching the last years of Steve Nash in the purple and orange, it is not fun to watch LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh team up in Miami.

Most of all, it is never fun to watch the Lakers’ three-peat.

However, all three of these examples have something in common. All three dynasties were defeated by an unlikely foe. In 2019, the three-time champion Golden State Warriors lost to the Toronto Raptors. In 2011, the Dallas Mavericks defeated the Heatles during the trio’s first playoff run together. In 2004, the Detroit Pistons effectively ended the Shaq and Kobe era Lakers during the duo’s last trip to the Finals.

What did these teams have in common? Is there a formula the Suns can follow to be the next great dynasty buster? Or should Phoenix simply bend the knee, trade Devin Booker, and hit the reset button?

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2019: Toronto Raptors​

Going into the 2019 season, the Toronto Raptors had finished five straight seasons with a winning record, finishing as a top-four seed each year.

They had just brought in new head coach Nick Nurse. Before him, Dwane Casey had led the team and helped build the culture for seven years.

For each of those seasons from 2014-2018, the team revolved around a core group of guys. That core consisted of Kyle Lowry, Jonas Valančiūnas, and DeMar DeRozan. Eventually, Fred VanVleet, Pascal Siakam, and OG Anunoby were added to that list.

For those five years, the Raptors fought hard and competed every night. Unfortunately for them, they never made it past LeBron in the DeMar DeRozan/Dwane Casey era. Among those five playoff appearances, Toronto lost to LeBron’s Cleveland Cavaliers three times, giving them the viral nickname “LeBronto”.

Yet, in these seasons, the same ones that saw the rise of the Golden Dynasty and possibly the greatest team in NBA history, the Raptors decided to try to win it all rather than sell and rebuild.

Going into the 2019 season, Toronto traded a package that included franchise cornerstone DeRozan to San Antonio for Kawhi Leonard. Leonard would go on to hit the greatest shot in franchise history to win Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Finals, en route to Toronto’s first NBA title. A title they won, many would say, because Kevin Durant tore his Achilles during the second round of the playoffs against Houston.

What lesson can the Suns learn from Toronto’s 2019 championship? Stay prepared and build a winning culture. Patiently wait, but when the perfect trade arises, be fearless. You never know when the right moment might suddenly open a championship window.

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2011: Dallas Mavericks​

The Mavs won 57 games in 2011, which shouldn’t have been a surprise. Dallas won at least 50 games every single year from 2001 through 2010.

In 2006, Dirk Nowitzki led the Mavericks to the NBA Finals for the first time in his career, winning 60 games along the way. They would lose in six games to the Miami Heat, led by young superstar Dwyane Wade and old Western Conference rival, Shaquille O’Neal.

The following year ended in disaster. After winning 67 games and claiming the first seed in the Western Conference, the Dallas Mavericks would lose to the “We Believe” Warriors. In doing so, they became just the third one seed to lose to an eight seed in NBA history and the first to do so in a seven-game series.

Of all landmarks in @NBA this is my fave — hole in wall 15 ft up where Dirk Nowitzki flung a garbage can in 2007 POs pic.twitter.com/NtDKUn09pl

— John Denton (@JohnDenton555) December 3, 2014

The season after losing in six in the NBA finals, this Western Conference contender lost a playoff series in embarrassing fashion to a team they should have beaten.

Does that sound familiar?

Would it sound more familiar if I told you that the following season they traded for a 34-year-old superstar in Jason Kidd at the trade deadline?

Over the next few years, the Mavericks picked up a center who had dealt with injuries in the previous couple of seasons, and a certain defensive-minded wing that was now in his thirties but could still surprise you with a bucket. The entire time, never losing faith and trading their franchise cornerstone.

Eventually, they broke through. The Mavericks defeated the defending back-to-back champion Lakers, the up-and-coming Oklahoma City Thunder, and a Miami Heat superteam to win their only title to date. A title they won, many would say, because LeBron James underperformed in the 2011 Finals.

What lesson can the Suns learn from Dallas’ 2011 championship? Stay prepared and build a winning culture. Patiently wait, but when the perfect trade arises, be fearless. You never know when the right moment might suddenly open a championship window.

---

2004: Detroit Pistons​

Detroit has a different story from Toronto and Dallas. There was no long-standing culture or coach. The Pistons had just two consecutive winning seasons headed into 2004, both under Rick Carlisle, who had since been replaced by Larry Brown.

The two leading scorers for the Pistons, Rip Hamilton and Chauncey Billups, both arrived in 2003. Ben Wallace was traded to Detroit in the offseason leading into the 2001 season.

Rasheed Wallace is the strangest case. He was traded twice in a ten-day span during the 2004 season. Over the course of two weeks, he played for the Portland Trailblazers, the Atlanta Hawks, and the Detroit Pistons.

No, Detroit had not been waiting in the wings, prepared to pounce when the giant stumbled. They were still beginning to figure out who they were and what they were building.

But they did know what they wanted. Phoenix now wants the same thing.

This Detroit team was known as the “Goin’ to Work” Pistons. They were known for their grit and tenacity, not their flash. Every team they played in the playoffs had a 20-point-per-game scorer except the Nets. The Lakers had two. Rip Hamilton led the ‘04 Pistons with 17.6 ppg.

The Pistons led the league in blocks and were tied for first in defense, allowing just 84.3 points per game. That tie was with the defending champion San Antonio Spurs. On the offensive end, the Pistons scored just 90.1 points, the 24th-best offense in basketball that year.

We enjoy a different NBA than what we had in 2004. I won’t pretend that the Suns, or any team, is capable of those kinds of defensive numbers. But what I can believe is that this Suns team has made solid defensive additions. With one or two more savvy trades to further improve the defense surrounding Devin Booker, this team could resemble a modern version of that Pistons team.

The comparison to this Detroit team is less about lessons the Suns can learn than it is about the realization of what the Suns could become. The Pistons were not a team built on the back of successful draft after successful draft. They were a team built through smart trades and a ruthless style of play. An important detail given Phoenix’s complete lack of draft capital moving forward.

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2026: Phoenix Suns​

The Thunder are probably going to win the title this year. The Thunder are probably going to win it next year, too. But the reality is that no team has won four straight titles since the Boston Celtics won eight straight from 1959-1966. In case you are wondering, that doesn’t just predate the NBA/ABA merger; that predates the ABA entirely.

Oklahoma City might go on to win three straight, but the odds are against them to win four in a row. It doesn’t matter how many picks they have or how young they are; no one has done it since the Vietnam War.

Injuries happen. The salary cap, luxury tax, and second apron happen. Regardless of how dominant the Thunder are now, someone is going to take their place. Someone is going to bust that dynasty. Why not the Suns?

They have the beginnings of a winning roster. Gillespie, Brooks, and Williams have all been perfect additions around Booker. The Suns have found great rotational depth in Oso, Dunn, and Bouyea. The offseason retool in the post-Durant era has landed the Suns in a situation where they can afford to bring rookies Khaman Maluach, Rasheer Fleming, and Koby Brea along slowly while still winning games.

But if Phoenix wants to be the next Pistons, Mavericks, or Raptors, the formula has been laid out by those who came before them:

Stay prepared and build a winning culture. Patiently wait, but when the perfect trade arises, be fearless. You never know when the right moment might suddenly open a championship window.

It is better to be ready when that window opens than watch another team seize the opportunity.

Source: https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/...-dallas-mavericks-detroit-pistons-okc-thunder

 

[Phoenix Suns]

This was the stretch that could have buried the Suns but didn’t

The Phoenix Suns are crawling toward the end of one of the nastiest stretches they will see all season. This thing has been a full contact gauntlet since November 21, almost a month of staring down top-tier teams with no nights off and no soft landings.

After beating Portland on November 18, the Suns sat at 9–6. Then the schedule dropped the hammer. 14 games with 13 of them being against teams over .500.

Minnesota. San Antonio. Houston. Oklahoma City. Denver. Los Angeles. Houston again. Minnesota again. Oklahoma City again. The Lakers again. 11 games of repeated punches. The only team under .500 in that run was Sacramento, and even that never feels easy. The gauntlet is not fully done yet, but the Suns have survived it. They went 5–6 through that stretch, and that record tells you more about who this team is than any clean win ever could.

They did it without Jalen Green. They did it with Devin Booker missing three games. They did it while getting dragged into slow games, physical games, whistle-heavy games, and games that tested patience more than talent. That month-long grind is almost over.

Before they can exhale, there is still business to handle. Golden State comes up twice in the next three days, which matters since the Warriors are sitting eighth and looking up at Phoenix. Then it is the Lakers again on December 23, the third meeting in 23 days, because the NBA scheduler likes seeing my Twitter skirmishes.

After that, the air finally loosens. Not a vacation, because those do not exist in this league, but a stretch where you are not playing teams above you in the standings every single night. Two games in New Orleans on back-to-back nights. A trip to Washington. Sure, they close out the 2025 calendar year in Cleveland, but the schedule breathes once again.

What stands out is how the Suns have positioned themselves through all of this. This type of grind can break you or weld you together, and they have leaned toward the latter. During this stretch, Phoenix still leads the league in steals at 11.2 per game. That is 1.5 more than Oklahoma City, the second-best team in that category. The defense travels. The activity never dipped.

The offense has felt the weight. The three-point shooting dropped to 34.4%, which ranks 22nd in the league over this span. Assists fell to 23.5 per night, good for 28th. Playing elite competition every night will do that to you. Rhythm gets stripped away. Flow turns into survival.

But that was always the mission: survive the gauntlet. If the Suns can pull out two wins over the next three games, they finish this brutal 14-game stretch at .500. Given the injuries, given the schedule, given the opponents, that is wild.

They took the hits. They stayed standing. Now comes the part where we find out what they look like on the other side.

Source: https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/...et-nba-steals-defense-injuries-season-stretch

 

[Phoenix Suns]

Suns Reacts Survey: What Nick Richards represents as the trade market opens

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NBA. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Suns fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

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We’ve arrived at December 15, the date around the league that quietly signals the start of trade season. Players who signed extensions over the summer are now eligible to be included in deals, and even if nothing happens right away, the mental wheels start turning.

82 NBA players who signed over the summer became eligible to be traded today.

Happy NBA Trade Season everyone!

— Keith Smith (@KeithSmithNBA) December 15, 2025

This does not impact most of the Phoenix Suns roster in a meaningful way. Still, it is enough to get the transactional imagination going as we look ahead to what this team could resemble by season’s end. The trade deadline is February 5, so there is no urgency from the organization to act. It remains a worthwhile exercise to explore possibilities and pressure points.

One name that has surfaced in recent trade chatter is Nick Richards. The fifth-year center out of Kentucky is averaging 3.4 points per game on 51.7% shooting in 9.4 minutes per night. He has fallen out of the rotation recently, and with a $5 million salary this season and unrestricted free agency looming, the natural question is what his market actually looks like if Phoenix decides to move him.

The early rumblings suggest the Suns would be open to moving Richards for multiple second round picks.

The Suns are very receptive to the idea of trading Nick Richards.

On a $5 million expiring contract, Richards could be had for multiple 2nd-round picks to help rebuild Phoenix’s future draft capital.

Outside Phoenix’s rotation, Richards fits for contenders needing a backup big. pic.twitter.com/286kaPp1iW

— Evan Sidery (@esidery) December 12, 2025

Size is always in demand around the league. Phoenix is one of the few teams that can say it has an abundance of it at center, with Mark Williams, Oso Ighodaro, and rookie Khaman Maluach all in the mix. As Maluach continues to develop, Richards increasingly becomes the expendable piece. Through 26 games, he has already found himself outside the regular rotation.

That brings us to today’s Suns Reacts poll. Would you trade Nick Richards for a couple of second round picks, or would you prefer to see Phoenix target a player in return instead? Let us know in the poll below.

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Source: https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/...nick-richards-rumors-center-depth-suns-reacts

 

[Phoenix Suns]

The math behind Devin Booker’s uneasy relationship with the three-ball

There always seemed to be a guitar living in my garage. I’ve never learned how to play it, however. Maybe I never had the patience. Maybe my left hand never figured out what it was supposed to do. No matter how hard I tried, I could not string together a few clean chords. Turns out my fingers are better suited for typing words than playing songs.

So why bring up my failed musical career and my lifelong inability to play ‘Mama Tried’ by Merle Haggard? Because that same disconnect shows up when you watch Devin Booker shoot the three-ball right now. I am being a little facetious, but the point stands. It has been a rough start from beyond the arc for Booker this season, and the numbers back it up.

Overall, Booker is 39-of-129 from deep this season. He’s hit one three-pointer in the month of December (granted, he’s played in just 2 games this month). That’s 30.2% on the year, which is a career low. He’s making 1.7 per night on 5.6 attempts.

Out of 103 NBA players who attempt at least five threes per game, Booker ranks 95th. The corner numbers look better on paper, 36.4%, but the volume is almost nonexistent. He has taken only 11 corner threes all season and is 4-of-11 overall. All of that success has come from the right corner, where he is 4-of-9. From the left corner, he is 0-of-2.

That leaves the bulk of his damage, or lack of it, above the break. On those looks, Booker is shooting 29.9%, going 35-of-117. Among the 46 players who have taken at least 117 above-the-break threes, Booker ranks second to last. The only player below him is LaMelo Ball, who sits at 26.3%.

When you look at Booker’s mid-range game, the volume is elite. Only five players in the entire league have taken more shots from that area (Brandon Ingram, DeMar DeRozan, Jaylen Brown, Shai Gilgeous Alexander, and Kevin Durant). Booker has gone 49-of-104, good for 47.1%. Among players who have taken at least 80 mid-range shots, that efficiency ranks 7th in the NBA.

31.5% of Booker’s shot diet is coming from beyond the arc, a noticeable drop from last season’s career high of 38.8%, when he hit 33.2% of his threes. In many ways, this looks like a return to the mean. His three-point rate was 32.0% in 2023–24 and 29.6% in 2022–23. Across those two seasons, he shot a combined 35.8% from deep, which lines up closely with his career average of 35.2%.

Booker is going to keep taking threes, and the hope is that the percentages drift back toward the mean. Because nights like Sunday, when he went 0-of-5 from deep, are killers. That is the swing point. It is the difference between being a lock as a ‘perennial All-Star’ and sliding into the ‘sometimes All-Star’ conversation. In today’s NBA, you have to consistently knock down the three-ball. There is no way around it.

There is no doubt he works on the shot. You can see that. Yet for whatever reason, moving five feet back from his mid-range comfort zone has always been an area where he has hovered around average. This season, it has dipped below that line. He is still going to get those looks, and I am fine with a 31.5% shot diet from beyond the arc. The bet is simple. Keep taking them and trust that they start to fall.

No one can steer him right, but I’m sure mama tried.

Source: https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/...-slump-midrange-efficiency-shot-diet-analysis

 

[Phoenix Suns]

Game Thread: Golden State Warriors @ Phoenix Suns

Game 27. Time to get out of this little funk.

Source: https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/...ame-thread-golden-state-warriors-phoenix-suns

 

[Phoenix Suns]

A messy night that still moved the Suns forward

It was a nail-biter in downtown Phoenix on Thursday night. One of those rare games where the Suns won without cracking 100 points. The last time that happened was April 5, 2024, against Minnesota. Even after Dillon Brooks flagrantly fouled Stephen Curry, which led to a five-point play that tied the game late in the fourth, the Suns survived.

I am thankful the schedule is finally about to calm down. Truly. Some consistency would feel like a luxury at this point. The front end of December has been a mess. Stop, start, sprint, slam on the brakes. This Suns team hates that. They live on rhythm. They feed off it. They want to get punched in the mouth, punch back, then show up the next night and do it again. That is who they are. Back to back one night, then three days staring at the ceiling the next, that is basketball whiplash. And it shows.

We saw it right away in the first half. If Dillon Brooks is not out there pouring in 20 of the Suns’ 46 points, this thing probably tilts early in a bad way. Instead, they hung around. They waited. Then the game found its groove, and so did Phoenix. Once the rhythm kicked in, they erased a 14-point hole and flipped the script. That mattered. Not because it was pretty, but because it was them.

They sit at 15-12 on the season. Over this brutal stretch, 12 games deep, they are 6-6. Golden State is the team looking up at them in the standings, now three games under .500. Thursday night mattered. Playing the same team again on Saturday, this time in their building, makes this one even sweeter. I am glad they got the win, even if the Suns (and ye,s I am looking at you, Dillon Brooks) turned it into more of a nail-biter than it needed to be.

Bright Side Baller Season Standings​

Devin Booker finally made his way back to the hardwood last Sunday, and while the stat sheet won’t be framed on his wall anytime soon — he went a cold 0-of-5 from deep and lived at the charity stripe to get his points — he’s officially back in the Bright Side Baller standings.

That gives him six on the year. It wasn’t the prettiest performance, but in a season defined by grit and getting back to full strength, we’ll take the points however they come. Progress, not perfection.

Bright Side Baller Nominees​

Game 27 against the Warriors. Here are your nominees:

Devin Booker

25 points (9-of-19, 2-of-6 3PT), 2 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal, 3 turnovers, -8 +/-

Dillon Brooks

24 points (10-of-23, 4-of-9 3PT), 7 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal, 3 turnovers, -13 +/-

Collin Gillespie

16 points (5-of-12, 1-of-6 3PT), 6 rebounds, 5 assists, 2 steals, 3 turnovers, +14 +/-

Oso Ighodaro

2 points (1-of-3), 13 rebounds, 5 steals, 2 turnovers, -12 +/-

Mark Williams

6 points (2-of-3), 4 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal, 1 block, +12 +/-

Royce O’Neale

9 points (3-of-9, 2-of-5 3PT), 5 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 steals, 1 turnover, +6 +/-

---

The polls are open!

Source: https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/...under-100-points-rhythm-schedule-grind-brooks

 

[Phoenix Suns]

5 mock trades built around the Suns’ most expendable center

With it being under two months until the trade deadline, discussions on a wide variety of players will start to ensue across the league. For the Suns, though, it is relatively quiet to start, as only one name has really been mentioned in trade discussions so far: center Nick Richards.

Richards, who was brought in at last year’s trade deadline from the Charlotte Hornets, has had a weird role here in Phoenix in just under a year so far. He went from being the best big in this rotation last year, looking like someone who could be a quality starter, but better suited in a backup role. With the Suns trading for Mark Williams and still developing sophomore big man Oso Ighodaro, he has now fallen out of the rotation already.

This leaves the 14-12 Suns in a tough spot going into the deadline. Do they hold onto Richards, as he can be some depth if they run into injuries, or do they move off him for another need? He only makes $5 million, so he does not make much. The Suns, though, do not want to lose him in free agency for nothing. With him becoming a free agent this summer and with a limited role now, it seems unlikely he would return.

Well, that is how the rumor mill has started for Richards, dating back to the offseason when his name was already brought up in trade rumors. Now his name still seems to be at the forefront of the Suns’ discussions, as it was recently brought up that the Suns talked to the Toronto Raptors about a deal involving Richards.

The Suns and Raptors have discussed a trade that would send Ochai Agbaji and a second-round pick to Phoenix in exchange for Nick Richards, per @MikeAScotto

“Meanwhile, rival NBA executives have cited Toronto’s Ochai Agbaji as the likely trade candidate to help the Raptors duck… pic.twitter.com/wvjpvIX3i5

— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) December 18, 2025

We already had a great article talking about that trade here, so check it out! https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/...ds-ochai-agbaji-draft-picks-nba-deadline-2025

That being said, though, Richards will eventually be moved by this deadline. Unfortunately, he has not played great this year in his limited minutes, but the Suns do not have the money to pay him. They have the contracts of Collin Gillespie and Mark WIllimas to worry about, and with rising young bigs in Oso Ighodaro and Khaman Maluach, it just does not make sense to retain him. So let’s look at some trades I came up with, and let me know your thoughts down below!

Trade 1: Cam Whitmore​

In this first trade, the Suns talk to the Wizards in DC and trade again, this time not for Bradley Beal but for Cam Whitmore and their 2026 second-round pick back. The Wizards would then take on Nick Richards and his expiring deal.

The Suns do this to take a flyer on Cam Whitmore. He has not lived up to the hype he had in college, and that could be due to his character, but there is still some offensive spark in Whitmore that can be brought out. If any team can get the best out of an unproven player over the last two years, it’s been the Suns, so that is something I can invest in. Not to mention, he is also a Villanova Wildcat like Collin Gillespie, bringing another Big East player to play with an alum could also spark something out of Whitmore.

The Wizards also add a second-round pick to get out of the Whitmore contract. They took a flyer on the wing this offseason, but things have not panned out with him in their rotation. He has fallen behind some of their other wings and could use a restart. This pick also helps the Suns recoup some draft capital, an area in which they are constrained.

For the Wizards, they take the expiring of Richards and get off a contract they no longer need. With their front court not as deep, only consisting of Alexander Sarr and Marvin Bagley, another big man could be helpful, even if they are bad. All depending on their other moves too, he could find himself some actual backup minutes, something he does not see in Phoenix.

Trade 2: Jordan Hawkins​

Similar to the previous trade, the Suns are once again taking on another flyer from the Big East in Jordan Hawkins, along with a 2030 New Orleans Pelicans second-round pick. The Pelicans then take on the expiring deal of Nick Richards.

The Suns can take flyers on players who haven’t panned out, and Hawkins fits that mold perfectly. He is someone who had a fantastic shooting run at UConn but has yet to find that hot streak in the NBA. This season, as well, he has been pushed out of the Pelicans’ rotation, with guards like Jordan Poole and Jeremiah Fears taking his minutes. I am someone who will never count a player out after his first spot, and that is how I feel with Hawkins. By learning from great three-point shooters on this roster, he could find that shot back and become someone who could be a low-investment, high-reward player.

Since Hawkins has fallen out of the rotation and does not have as high a value as he has held in the past, the Pelicans would have to attach a pick. The Suns are taking on an extra year, just like they do in the Whitmore deal, and need some additional compensation to do so. The Pelicans, as we all know, made one of the craziest trades of the decade in this past draft, with a pick, so that anything can be possible. If they feel in 2030 with this new core, they will be good; that pick will mean nothing to them.

The reason the Pelicans do this deal is to get off Hawkins’s contract and not have to worry about his rookie-scale extension/free agency problem. They also get to invest more into their young core and develop the guards they do play. New Orleans also has some questions in their front court, so adding some additional help could be beneficial for this team. Guys like Kevon Looney have barely played, Zion Williamson is in trade discussions, and regardless of how dominant Derik Queen is, he cannot play center and power forward the whole game. Adding Richards could give them a quality backup who could see more playing time than he does here, once again.

Trade 3: Jevon Carter​

In this deal, the Suns see a familiar face and bring him back to the Valley by trading with the Chicago Bulls. In this deal, the Suns take on Jevon Carter and a 2028 Bulls second-round pick. In return, they send them Nick Richards.

Jevon Carter gets a return to Phoenix in this deal and is just another body for this guard room. With Jalen Green and Devin Booker seeing injuries, many guys have stepped up, like Collin Gillespie and Jamaree Bouyea. That said, having that extra insurance isn’t bad. We also saw how well a reunion with another guard, Jordan Goodwin, has looked this year. If the Suns feel they can get that from Carter as some insurance in the guard room, I do not see why they do not take the shot. He is also an expiring next year, so if it does not work, he is off the books.

The reason the Bulls have to include a pick in this deal is multifactorial. One Carter has not been part of their rotation, and this would provide them with some help in an area of need. Not to mention that Carter makes more than Richards, potentially hindering the other moves this Suns team can make. Also, it is the Bulls. They do not get picks in trades, but I bet they would be willing to send them out if they can “win now”.

Richard once again adds needed depth to a team that is a bit weaker in the frontcourt. They have some solid bigs in Jalen Smith and Nikola Vucevic, but another would not hurt. Once again, Chicago wants to win and make these moves. If they can move off someone who does not play and add someone who could bring something to their bench unit, why not take the swing? For the Bulls, this risky move does not outweigh their past decisions, so it would not shock me if this were done.

Trade 4: Keon Ellis​

Now this one is a bit more out of left field, and different from the past, but hear me out. In this deal, the Suns would trade Nick Richards and two second-round picks, the Suns’ 2029 and 2032, for Keon Ellis from the Sacramento Kings.

The Suns do this because Ellis has the potential to be a key piece of their future, and the Kings do not know how to handle his situation. The Kings want to win and will do anything to do so, letting Ellis, one of their best defenders, go without minutes. It is a puzzling situation that one fan has eyed since this offseason, when they let Ellis enter unrestricted free agency. So if the Suns make this trade, they have to be willing to pay Ellis, but I do not see that being an issue. Ellis could be the perfect fit next to Devin Booker in this starting lineup, serving as a secondary ball handler and a fantastic defender who complements his weaknesses.

The Suns in this trade are the ones giving up picks, and that is because they are investing in youth talent. They have embraced that motto this season, and it has worked, so I am confident Ellis would fit like a glove into this system. Since they have limited firsts, the Suns throw their two most valuable second picks. With the uncertainty of their future, a Kings team may feel this is the best deal available. I am well aware that Ellis may cost more, and I am willing to admit that, just with Phoenix’s limited draft capital, this felt right.

The Kings do this deal because their evaluation of Ellis is incorrect; otherwise, he would have already been paid and playing for this team. With them being at the bottom of the West and going on a fire sale anyway, why not trade someone who clearly has not been a part of the plans now or for the future? They take on Richards, who presumably would see an increased role depending on the trades they make. Even if not, he still would compete with Maxime Raynaud for these backup minutes if Domantas Sabonis were to stay put.

Trade 5: The Blockbuster​

The final trade and the big kahuna of them all is finally in front of you. Now, before you yell at me through your screens, you can just hear me out first. In this deal, the Suns get Ja Morant, G.G. Jackson, and a 2029 Portland Trail Blazers second-round pick from the Memphis Grizzlies. In return, they send them Jalen Green and Nick Richards.

Morant has been solid in reintegrating himself with the Grizzlies after some early-season difficulties with the coach, but the time has come for Memphis. They are 13-14 and clearly have some bright young stars, but not enough to get over the hump in this stacked West. They ultimately look to get younger, and trading Morant for Green allows them to do so while still investing in an offensive downhill threat that could be valuable to them. The Grizzlies also have young point guards in Scottie Pippen Jr. and Ty Jerome, who could not replace but help replicate the workload lost with the trading of Morant. Ricahards is basically a throw-in for this Grizzlies team, which has seen injuries to its front-court players, especially Zach Edey. Having the extra insurance could be valuable for that, or any other move the team decides to make, giving him a bigger role than he currently has.

The reason the Grizzlies have to throw in this pick is that G.G. Jackson is involved. The wing has fallen out of their rotation and still has that extra year on his deal. Once again, Phoenix is taking a flyer on someone who was a former two-way player who found success. If any team has been able to bring those guys out, it is here, so taking that swing is worth it in this deal while also getting a pick, too.

The Suns do this deal feeling uncertain about Jalen Green’s future with the team. They felt the uncertainty when they got him, fielding offers before realizing the value wasn’t there. Now, in his 5 quarters of play, he has impressed and looked like he could be a part of this future. That being said, the Suns could also see that potential in adding Ja Morant. Having a very similar downhill attacking guard, but one who is a solid playmaker and allows Booker to go back to his natural position of a shooting guard. With the Suns not having much draft capital either, they want to win now, and trading for Morant allows them to be slightly better positioned to do so.

Final Thoughts​

Well, everyone, here are the five mock trades I came up with, discussing Nick Richards’s involvement. I would like to add that the last trade was not possible without including Morant and Green because of Memphis’s salary cap. With that being said, though, which of these was your favorite? Did you not like any? I would love to hear what you guys have to say in the comments.

Source: https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/...s-trade-rumors-mock-deadline-options-analysis

 

[Phoenix Suns]

How your next piece of Suns’ memorabilia could come from the heart

The holiday season is screaming down the highway at us once again. It is the time of year when we finally pause to think about the people left standing on the shoulder of the road. We consider those who lack the access or the means to chase the experiences we take for granted.

While these weeks are usually stuffed with loud parties and family gatherings, the real heart of the thing is remembering the less fortunate. That is the wild, beautiful engine driving Dave King’s Bright Side Night.

The donations are still trickling in from every corner of the map. I am constantly stunned by the raw power of this community. We are closing in on $10,000 in contributions so far. I do not claim to know much about the secrets of the universe, but I know Dave would be proud of what is happening here.

Thank you.

We decided to twist the dial a little bit this year for those who want something more than a warm glow in their chest. From now until December 28, we are running an online silent auction. If you want to fuel the Bright Side Night mission while snagging some unique Suns memorabilia, this is your chance.

I spent a long time obsessing over this new addition. I personally selected the items and wrestled with the logistics to make it a reality. All proceeds from these bids go directly to the cause.

Go take a look at the haul. Tell a friend. Treat yourself to something. Let us keep our eyes on those who have less than we do. We can give them the electric, heavy-hitting experience of Suns basketball.

So dive in and place your bids before the clock runs out on December 28. This is our chance to turn a few pieces of history into a bridge for someone else. Let us finish this year strong and keep the momentum rolling. Together, we can make sure the lights at the arena shine a little brighter for everyone.

Source: https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/...ction-memorabilia-dave-king-charity-donations

 

[Phoenix Suns]

Is Devin Booker finally out of his shooting slump?

Going into last night’s game against the Golden State Warriors, Devin Booker was in a horrific shooting slump. In his last 12 games before yesterday’s, Booker made just 39.8% of his shots from the field and a measly 21.2% from three, all while averaging nearly three points per game less than his season average.

He hasn’t had a game where he’s played the entirety of the contest and shot over 50% from the field since November 12th against the Indiana Pacers, and doesn’t have a game where he’s shot over 34% from three on more than two attempts in a game since November 6th against the Los Angeles Clippers. For reference, the November 6th contest was Jalen Green’s only full game he’s played this year: That was 43 days ago.

The first half of last night’s game, Booker appeared to be on track for another contest where his efficiency was down. He hit just one shot in the first 24 minutes on seven attempts, but when the second half rolled around, and the team needed him most, he turned things around.

With Phoenix down as much as 14 in the second half, Booker had 23 points on 8/12 shooting from the field, 2/4 from three, and 5-of-6 from the charity stripe in the game’s final two quarters. He hit numerous clutch shots, including one over Jimmy Butler with less than a minute left after the Warriors had a five-point possession thanks to Dillon Brooks’ flagrant foul on Stephen Curry.

CLUTCH BOOK BUCKET!

This game is tied at 98 with 21.7 seconds remaining. pic.twitter.com/WTHy2VrF2p

— Phoenix Suns (@Suns) December 19, 2025

He ended the night going 9-of-19, scoring 25 points. One of his most efficient outings over the last month.

In both the third and fourth quarters, Booker scored in double-digits. Coincidentally, the last time Booker scored 20 points in a half came in the first matchup against the Warriors on November 4th. It was the first time this season he had a 20-point half, and the Suns won. Phoenix was previously 0-3.

Only his second game back from the right groin injury he suffered against the Lakers on December 1st, Booker said he took his core shorts off to get himself going in the second half. He said the shorts restricted his movement and that he’s going to “retire” them.

"I took my core shorts off. It's like some super tight, tights. Restrict you from moving too much cause I've been coming back from an injury. I retired those."

Devin Booker on 23-point 2nd half in Suns win over Warriors. 2 points in 1st half.

2nd game back after missing 3 with… pic.twitter.com/r1EMAoCJqp

— Duane Rankin (@DuaneRankin) December 19, 2025

Booker is now averaging 31.5 points per game on 51.2% from the field in his two matchups against the Warriors this year. What does he need to do to continue to get out of his slump and help the Suns be victorious when the two teams face off again on Saturday in San Francisco at 6:30?

Source: https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/...iors-clutch-performance-phoenix-victory-stats