News Suns Team Notes

[Phoenix Suns]

2025 Suns Player Review: Jalen Bridges didn’t pop in Phoenix but the tools are still there

Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images

Jalen Bridges has a jumper and a frame but is it enough to stay in Phoenix?

Welcome to our Phoenix Suns Season in Review series, where we take a closer look at each player who suited up during the 2024–25 campaign. One by one, we’ll break down what went right, what went wrong, and what each player can do to take the next step heading into next season.

---

You might be wondering why we’re spending time doing player reviews for guys on two-way contracts. Why bother dissecting the brief, flickering presence of someone like Jalen Bridges, a name you barely heard on the broadcasts and probably couldn’t pick out of a lineup at Sky Harbor?

Here’s why.

Because sometimes these obscure little footnotes in May turn into something that matters in March. Maybe one day we’ll look back at this piece and say, “Yeah, that’s where it started.” The first breadcrumbs. The first glimpse. That spark of potential Phoenix actually managed to nurture instead of squander.

But more likely?

More likely, we’ll be digging this write-up out of the archives to send over to the editor of a different SB Nation site after a trade. Some other fanbase trying to talk themselves into a bench wing with “positional versatility” and a “high motor.” This review becomes a scouting report, a receipt, a eulogy.

That’s the nature of it. That’s the grind. We track it all, even the long shots. Because in this league, the margins matter. And sometimes, those margins grow into something worth remembering.

Jalen Bridges​

• Position: Wing
• Vitals: 6’8”, 225 pounds, 23 years old
• Experience: 1 year
• Stats: 8 GP, 1.1 PPG (28.6 FG%, 28.6 FT%), 0.5 RPG, 0.0 APG, 0.5 TO

Contract Details​

Jalen Bridges wasn’t drafted in the 2024 NBA Draft out of Baylor. The Suns signed him to a two-way contract for this past season, and he will be a restricted free agent this summer.

Regular Season Recap​

Jalen Bridges was a very James Jones signing. Textbook, even. An older rookie fresh out of four seasons in college (two at West Virginia, two at Baylor), the 6’8” wing fit the mold Jones seems to favor: seasoned, mature, low-risk. He brings just enough athleticism to be intriguing and a confident enough three-point stroke to keep the dream alive. That’s the profile. Age, shooting, and a hope that maybe he could be something.

Bridges didn’t get much of a chance with the big club. His time with the Phoenix Suns was more of a cameo than a role: 30 total minutes, 9 total points, and every single shot attempt came from beyond the arc. No dribble drives, no off-ball cuts, no chaos. Just spot-up threes in the waning seconds of lost games. Garbage time, meet development time.

Where Bridges made his name this year was in the G League with the Valley Suns. In 31 games, he put up a respectable 14.3 points a night on solid 43/39/80 shooting splits. He helped lead the Valley Suns to the G League playoffs, where they were bounced by the eventual champs, the Stockton Kings. It wasn’t flashy, but it was functional. And if nothing else, he proved he belongs somewhere in the professional basketball ecosystem.

Still, that leap — the one from promising G Leaguer to meaningful NBA contributor — never came close to materializing. There were no “wait a minute” moments. No glimpses of something that demanded another look. For now, Jalen Bridges feels like a placeholder. A developmental bet that didn’t pay immediate dividends.

But that’s how it goes with two-way guys. Most don’t hit. Some do. And the question now is whether Bridges gets another roll of the dice, or if he becomes another line on the long list of G League guys who almost were.

Biggest Strength​

Bridges has all the physical tools you’d want in a developmental wing. The length is there. The athleticism? No question. And most importantly, in today’s NBA, the man can shoot. He knocked down 39.8% of his threes in the G League this season, hit 37% over his college career, and finished his senior year at Baylor at a blistering 41.2%. That’s not fluky, that’s a track record.

So why hasn’t it clicked yet?

Maybe it’s as simple as this: he hasn’t had the reps. The rhythm. The leash. With Phoenix, Bridges was never given a real opportunity to show what he could do. You can’t evaluate a player on garbage-time threes and box scores filled with zeros. Some guys need a consistent run to reveal their value, to play through mistakes, to find their place, to let instincts take over.

Bridges has the deliverables. The raw material is there. Now it’s a question of whether the Suns, or some other team, are willing to give him the one thing he hasn’t had yet at the NBA level: real, meaningful minutes. Because until then, he’ll remain what he is now: a maybe.

Biggest Weakness​

Bridges looks the part defensively. Long frame, wiry athleticism, the kind of physical profile you’d expect to translate. But as of now, that promise hasn’t materialized into production. If you’re hunting for a true “3-and-D” contributor, Bridges hasn’t yet filled in the “D” half of that equation.

His defensive rating with the Valley Suns was 111.2, fourth worst on the team, and the tape backs it up. He struggles with positioning, gambles too often, and hasn’t quite figured out how to use his physical gifts to disrupt rhythm or shut down space. It’s not for lack of tools. It’s about timing, instincts, and effort, all of which can come with experience...or never show up at all.

Then there’s the rebounding.

For a guy with his length, his numbers on the glass are underwhelming. That’s part of the trade-off with modern perimeter wings. They’re trained to live from arc to arc, to leak out instead of crashing the boards, to chase space instead of seizing it. It’s how the game is taught now. And while it works for some — those who shoot well enough or defend consistently enough to justify the trade-off — it leaves guys like Bridges hanging in the liminal space between “maybe” and “not quite.”

There’s talent here. But talent without a defining strength at the NBA level is just potential waiting to expire.

Likelihood of Return: 7.5​

With Bridges entering restricted free agency, the uncertainty is thick. You’d be hard-pressed to say he put enough on tape to spark real intrigue from another front office, at least not the kind that leads to a guaranteed deal. He’s a flyer, a project, a “maybe” in a league that often doesn’t have the patience for maybes.

If no offer sheet comes — and that feels likely — Phoenix could easily bring him back on another two-way. Low risk, low cost, and the developmental runway still stretches out in front of him. They’ve seen the flashes. He knows the system. And there’s a certain comfort in continuity, especially when the player is still a moldable piece of clay.

Bridges’ journey isn’t over. But the next step, whether it’s a breakthrough or another year of seasoning in the G League, probably comes back in a Suns jersey.

---

Overall Grade: D+​

As an NBA player, Jalen Bridges still has a long road ahead of him. And that’s not an indictment. It’s just the reality of where he is. We didn’t see much of him in a Phoenix Suns jersey, and when we did, the flashes were faint. I remember being intrigued by him during last year’s Summer League, circling his name like a maybe-lottery ticket. That excitement never cashed in during the regular season.

On a roster starved for youth and athleticism, Bridges might’ve had a narrow window to make an impact. But two-way players live on the fringe for a reason. They’re development swings, not rotation saviors. And let’s be honest: given how Budenholzer mismanaged this team — like I mismanaged my first credit card at 18 — there probably wasn’t a realistic path for Bridges to matter this year. That’s not entirely his fault. That’s just how things shake out when timelines clash and roles are locked in by veteran inertia.

Still, he has tools. The jumper is real. The frame is NBA-ready. And if he sticks around, likely on another two-way deal, there’s time to smooth the edges. Bridges isn’t ready yet. But “not yet” isn’t the same as “never.”

---

Listen to the latest podcast episode of the Suns JAM Session Podcast below. Stay up to date on every episode, subscribe to the pod on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, YouTube Podcasts, Amazon Music, Podbean, Castbox.

Please subscribe, rate, and review.

Source: https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/...2025-g-league-stats-two-way-contract-analysis

 

[Phoenix Suns]

How a Bradley Beal buyout would work (and why it makes sense for all parties involved)

Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images

How would it work? Let’s break it down.

I’ve been turning this over in my head for weeks now, trying to land on a clear, cohesive thesis for how the Phoenix Suns should navigate the coming offseason. The options aren’t plentiful, but they exist.

Somewhere in an office filled with trade possibilities, cap sheets, and whiteboards scribbled with scenarios, new Suns’ general manager Brian Gregory is undoubtedly doing the same thing. He’s sifting through the narrow pathways available, mapping out what can be done within the suffocating constraints of the first and second apron restrictions, weighing mid-level exceptions, buyouts, stretch provisions, and the rapidly tightening trade market.

And looming over it all is one pivotal decision: what to do with Bradley Beal.

His no-trade clause remains a towering obstacle, limiting flexibility and leverage, but if a mutual understanding can be reached — if both sides quietly admit this arrangement isn’t working — a path forward exists. The math isn’t really complex, the consequences real, but possible.

I’m grateful to ESPN’s Bobby Marks, whose insights into the cap gymnastics have helped frame the potential outcomes and made sense of an otherwise tangled situation. And to Fanning the Flames’ hosts, Paul and Justin, as we spent way too long in a group chat last night playing out scenarios and checking each other’s math like we were doing peer review in 8th grade.

I’ve been discussing the CBA in a group chat with @DervishOfWhirl and @DarthVoita for like the past 2 hours and I just realized we are all sick, sick individuals

— SoSaysJ (@SoSaysJ) May 9, 2025​

Like, seriously. We’ve beaten this topic into the hardwood. We’ve dissected it, debated it, diagrammed it like it’s the Zapruder film. I owe a formal apology to our group chat for the hours of discussion. Because at the end of all the mental gymnastics and CBA-speak, it turns out there’s a loophole. A wildly expensive, diamond-encrusted loophole that, if Mat Ishbia is willing to empty his Scrooge McDuck vault, could liberate the Suns from both cap hell and Bradley Beal.

At least, that’s how I understand it. That’s how Bobby Marks explained it to me. And frankly, if he’s wrong, then we’re all just floating in the salary cap multiverse, clinging to hope and hypothetical stretch provisions.

It’s doable. It’s logical.

So before we chart those potential moves, here’s a clear-eyed look at where the Phoenix Suns currently stand relative to the cap heading into next season, with 10 players under contract and the NBA salary cap climbing to $154.6 million. This is the starting point.

How a Beal Buyout Works​

Let’s break down how a buyout would actually work.

It can sound confusing because NBA salary cap rules have a lot of complicated terms, numbers, and restrictions. But at its core, it’s like negotiating a settlement with a player so both sides can move on. This is a unique scenario because it is for a player with two years left on his deal, so it makes the math kind of funky. But at the end of the day, it’s not as complicated as it seems.

Let’s start with the Collective Bargaining Agreement. Per the CBA, Article VII, Section 7(d), Line 5:

In the event that a Team and a player agree to amend a Player Contract in accordance with Article II, Section 3(p), then: (i) for purposes of calculating the player’s Salary for the then-current and any remaining Salary Cap Year covered by the Contract, notwithstanding any stretch of the player’s protected Compensation payment schedule, the aggregate reduction in the player’s protected Compensation, if any, shall be allocated pro rata over the then-current and each remaining Salary Cap Year on the basis of the remaining unearned protected Base Compensation in each such Salary Cap Year; and (ii) the Team shall not be permitted to sign the player to a new Player Contract (or claim the player off of waivers) before the later of: (x) one (1) year following the date that the player’s Player Contract with such Team was terminated; or (y) the July 1 following the last Season of such Player Contract.

Got that? Yeah. Now you see why I was in group chats with Bobby Marks, Justin, and Paul for hours. The CBA is 676 pages long. Mat Ishbia, Brian Gregory...if you’re reading...feel free to hire Justin, Paul, and myself. Justin’s a lawyer, Paul’s an accountant, and I’m kind of the “let’s think outside of the box” guy.

It’s practical exercise time.

Bradley Beal is owed $110.8 million over the next two seasons. If the Suns decided to buy him out, they’d essentially offer him a smaller chunk of that total in exchange for walking away from the deal and hitting free agency. Say they offer him $66 million. That means Phoenix would save $44.8 million, and Beal would be free to sign with any team he chooses.

How does that affect the Suns’ salary cap?

Since Beal still has two years remaining on his contract, the cap hit from a buyout wouldn’t hit all at once. It would be spread out over time. The amount is prorated, meaning it’s divided based on when the buyout takes place and how much salary is owed in each of the remaining years. Essentially, it’s weighted by the contract structure.

In this case:

• 48.4% of the $66 million buyout counts against next season’s cap ($53.7 million is 48.4% of $110.8 million)
• 51.6% counts against the following season

If Beal takes the $66 million buyout of his $110.8 million contract, the cap hit would not occur in just one year. It would hit for the next two. So if you prorate that amount, you get the following:

• $66 million × 48.4% = $32.0 million
• That is next season’s cap hit in this scenario.

The same formula applies for the next season:

• $66 million × 51.6% = $34.0 million
• This is the cap hit in 2026-27

In Beal’s case, if the Suns paid him $66 million to walk away, they’d carry dead cap space over the next two seasons — the duration he was originally signed to play — based on the prorated savings from the buyout.

Since the NBA salary cap goes up by about 10% every year, those cap hits would take up about 21% of the team’s salary cap next season and 20% the following year.

But the Suns would have another option. The stretching of the buyout.

If Beal agrees to a $66 million buyout, the Suns could stretch the remaining amount. What that means is they’d spread out the total amount left over five years (which is twice the number of years on his contract, plus one extra year).

In this case:

• $66 million total cap hit
• Divided over 5 years = $13.2 million per year

That’s a much smaller cap hit each season, which gives the Suns more flexibility to build a roster.

So from a cap perspective, it would look like this:

• Option 1: Buyout without stretching — $66 million cap hit, $32.0 million in 2025-26, and $34.0 million in 2026-27

• Option 2: Buyout and stretch — $13.2 million each year for five years

In both scenarios, the Suns free up much-valued cap space.

Again, all of this is based on a $66 million buyout. The math changes if the buyout number goes up or down.

Let’s say Mat Ishbia really opens up the purse strings and the Suns offer Beal an $80.8 million buyout. In this deal, Beal would be giving up $30 million, which is a likely number, seeing as that is the mid-level over the next two years. It would break down to a $39.1 million cap hit in 2025–26 and $41.7 million in 2026–27. If the Suns chose to use the stretch provision, $80.8 million would be spread evenly over five years, resulting in a cap hit of $16.2 million per season.

On the other hand, if the Suns and Bradley Beal agreed to something small, a buyout offer of $30 million, the numbers become Suns-friendly. The cap hit would only be $14.5 million in 2025-26 and $15.5 million in 2026-27, or $6 million per year over five years with a stretch.

The higher the buyout number, the higher the cap hit. Simple in theory, costly in practice. It’s a financial balancing act. The more cash you’re willing to shell out upfront, the less you’re penalized on the books.

I previously had reported that Ishbia could pay the entire amount, and the cap hit would be zero. That was incorrect.

Offseason video: Phoenix Sunshttps://t.co/DZvdlkGfZx

via @YouTube

— Bobby Marks (@BobbyMarks42) April 19, 2025​

Why Would Beal Do It?​

So why would Bradley Beal ever consider this? Why would he leave $110.8 million on the table to take $66 million in a buyout from the Suns in this dream scenario? That’s a difference of $44.8 million, a massive number to give up.

But here’s the way to look at it.

Beal is about to turn 32 years old when next season tips off. Realistically, he probably has one more solid contract left in his NBA career. He’s still a capable scorer and a respected name in the league, but it just didn’t work out for him in Phoenix’s current roster setup. So, instead of sticking around in a bad fit and playing out the string, he could turn this into a long-term, strategic move.

If Beal accepts a buyout — we’ll stick with that $66 million, which is like $33 million per year number — he instantly becomes a free agent, free to sign with a team where he could both reclaim his role and potentially make up some, if not all, of the money he’s sacrificing.

For example, if Beal signs a three-year, $75 million deal elsewhere, that’s $25 million per season. Here’s how the numbers would shake out:

• This year: $33 million from the Suns + $25 million from his new team = $58 million. That’s actually $4.3 million more than the $53.7 million he was set to make.
• Next year: $25 million from his new deal, but remember, he already got $33 million from the Suns up front. So while it’s technically a financial wash compared to the $57.1 million he was owed, he’s no longer tied to Phoenix and still banking good money.
• Year three: Another $25 million. Money that wouldn’t have existed for him under his current Suns deal.

In short, it’s a move that secures short-term cash and a path to long-term stability. And for those who might argue Beal isn’t worth $25 million a season, here’s a look at a few players currently making in that ballpark:

There are always teams out there with cap space to burn, looking for ways to reach the salary floor or add proven talent. In that sense, it makes plenty of sense for a team to take a swing on Bradley Beal.

And when you consider the way the cap keeps rising, it gets even easier to justify. By the 2027–28 season, a $25 million salary would account for only about 13% of the projected cap. In NBA terms, that’s solid value for a veteran scorer who can still put up numbers and bring experience to a locker room.

Beal likely wouldn’t agree to a buyout unless he had a new deal lined up elsewhere. He’d want to know his market value first, then use that as leverage to negotiate a number with the Suns that makes walking away worthwhile. It’s not just about leaving money on the table, it’s about making sure the next table is already set.

---

This is the path.

It makes sense for Bradley Beal to accept a buyout, if the number is right. He walks away with immediate money in hand, the chance to earn even more elsewhere, and secures an extra year of financial stability.

For the Suns? They’ll have to wear the cap hit, whether it’s over two years or stretched across five. But the bigger win is freedom. They’ll finally be out from under the contract. Out from under the no-trade clause. And out from under the suffocating constraints of the second apron, with a real shot to reshape the roster and regain flexibility for the seasons ahead.

It’s the cleanest imperfect option they’ve got. It’s either that at least one more year of Bradley Beal. Which option would you choose?

---

Listen to the latest podcast episode of the Suns JAM Session Podcast below. Stay up to date on every episode, subscribe to the pod on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, YouTube Podcasts, Amazon Music, Podbean, Castbox.

Please subscribe, rate, and review.

Source: https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/...-nba-salary-cap-options-offseason-plan-ishbia

 

[Phoenix Suns]

2025 Suns Player Review Anthology: One final look back at every player on the 2024–25 Phoenix Suns

@Grok

Every Phoenix Suns player is reviewed as we bury the season.

It’s been 28 days since the Phoenix Suns played their final game. As the playoffs roll on — teams trading blows deep into the second round — the Suns have gone to Cancun and come back by now.

Every year, we try to put a bow on the season. Wrap it up. Clean out the locker, pack away the pens. School’s out for the summer. This time, our writing team went the extra mile, delivering in-depth reviews for every player who suited up in a Suns jersey. And based on their insight, I’ve stitched together this final anthology. A complete, player-by-player breakdown of how this season unraveled.

We know the epitaph: “Here lies the Phoenix Suns, 36–46, no playoffs”. But how did we get here?

We’ve done the weeklies. We’ve tracked the fall. And now, at last, we close the book with one final chapter: the individual stories. The moments. The misfires. The glimpses. All of it.

To the Bright Side writing staff: thank you. This kind of work takes time, focus, and care. Your words helped shape this. And mine, as usual, took far too long to put together. But now, at least, it’s done.

We can finally move on.

Player Reviews​

Did you miss the reviews? Need a place to catch up on every single player breakdown from the 2024–25 Suns season? Look no further. This is your one-stop shop. Every recap, every grade, all in one place. Bookmark it. This is the page.

Player Recaps​

Kevin Durant​

Kevin Durant didn’t just play well. For stretches this season, he carried the Suns. Early on, he was the engine, guiding them to an 8–1 start with surgical precision. In clutch time, he was ruthless: 5 points per on 63% shooting, leading the league and slamming doors shut nightly.

But when he missed seven games? The Suns went 3-17. That told the story: with KD, they had a chance. Without him, they were cooked.

He logged 62 games, dropped milestones (hello, 30K points), and was quietly one of Phoenix’s best defenders. His net rating (-1.9) reflects how often he was propping up a flawed roster. Say what you want about the man. Even at 36, he’s still elite.

Devin Booker​

Devin Booker became the Suns’ all-time leading scorer this season, passing Walter Davis with his signature blend of grit, loyalty, and buckets. Ten years, 642 games, and 15,666 points later, he etched his name atop the franchise’s history books.

Only he and Giannis have averaged 25+ points over the last seven seasons. That’s rare air. Sure, this wasn’t his prettiest year (career-low 46.1% shooting since 2018), but the man still poured in five 40-burgers and a season-high 47-piece against Utah.

Unfortunately, it all came in a season where the wheels fell off. He and Beal never clicked. Durant went down. And any momentum they scraped together eventually evaporated. In Booker’s words? A slow bleed. And a bitter end.

Photo by Kate Frese/NBAE via Getty Images

Bradley Beal​

Bradley Beal’s second year in Phoenix felt more like a ghost story than a fresh chapter. He drifted in and out of games, rarely imposing his will, never truly syncing with the team. His usage rate (22.1%) was the lowest of his career, even lower than his rookie season.

Nine single-digit scoring nights. Just one 30-point game. This from a guy who once averaged 30+ in back-to-back seasons.

The low point? That Boston game in April: 1 point on 0-for-7 shooting while the Suns were clinging to postseason hopes. It was a statline that doubled as a metaphor. Beal was out there, technically, but barely. If there’s a snapshot of his season, that game is it. Disengaged. Disappointing. And impossible to ignore.

Grayson Allen​

Grayson Allen’s 2024–25 season felt like a vanishing act. After starting the year before, he moved back to the bench. And nearly disappeared with it.

His minutes dropped by 10, and his impact somehow dipped even more. Catch-and-shoot looks that once felt automatic were now just slightly off. Wrong spot, wrong time, wrong rhythm.

He bulked up in the offseason, sure, but the added muscle didn’t translate. On defense, his body language often said more than his play. Yes, he technically shot over 40% from deep, but it felt like 35%. No flow, no identity, no spark. Just a guy on the court, floating around the edges of a broken rotation. Blink and you missed him. Most nights, we barely knew he played.

Nick Richards​

Nick Richards wasn’t supposed to be a difference-maker, but he kinda was.

After starting the year in Charlotte, he landed in Phoenix midseason as the Suns scrambled to patch up a fractured center rotation. Budenholzer soured on Nurkic, and Richards stepped in like a pro. No drama, just boards. He dropped 21 and 11 in his debut and never looked back, starting 34 of 36 games and grabbing double-digit rebounds in 13 of them.

Offensively? Meh. 9.5 points in 22.7 minutes. But compared to Nurkic? More impact, less baggage, and over $10 million cheaper. He wasn’t flashy. He was functional. And in a season full of underwhelming returns, that actually meant something.

Royce O’Neale​

Royce O’Neale’s Suns season started slow, but he eventually found his footing.

By Game 5, he dropped his first 20-piece against the Clippers, and December was his sweet spot. Six straight games in double figures, shooting over 50% in five of them. His high-water mark came February 20th vs. the Spurs: 27 points on 62.5% shooting, plus six boards and three steals. The Suns still lost, but it was a glimpse of what Royce could bring when things clicked.

That said, those flashes were few. Just one more 20-point game followed, and as Phoenix sputtered late, his role shrank. Still, he was a steady rotation piece all season, never spectacular, but rarely out of place. A pro’s pro.

Ryan Dunn​

Ryan Dunn’s rookie year was a blend of promise and puzzlement. He started hot—13-of-33 from deep, the Suns went 7–1, and it felt like they’d struck gold. Defensively, he was a breath of fresh air: energy, grit, effort. Everything the team desperately needed.

And yet, Mike Budenholzer couldn’t seem to decide what to do with him. Dunn played fewer than 20 minutes in nearly half his games, often disappearing from the rotation entirely without explanation. For a team starving for perimeter defense and heart, benching Dunn felt like coaching malpractice.

Still, he made noise: 74 games, 44 starts, no DNPs, and a poster on Giannis that cracked the NBA’s Top 10 dunks list. Oh, and he never fouled out. Not once.

Poster dunk by Ryan Dunn on Giannis Adetokumbo #NBAX pic.twitter.com/1drv2zxgiB

— NBA Dracos (@NBADracos) March 25, 2025​

Oso Ighodaro​

Oso Ighodaro’s rookie year was a tale of two seasons. Early on, he carved out a real role. 26 appearances in the first 32 games, giving the Suns steady minutes, smart cuts, and sneaky rebounding. For a team desperate for dependable depth, it felt like they might’ve found something.

But when January rolled into February, and Phoenix hit a lull, Budenholzer did what he does: youth got the boot. Oso vanished.

Then came March. He clawed his way back into the mix, playing all 17 of the Suns’ final games and flashing the same intrigue. 25.6 minutes a night, modest stats, solid presence. He didn’t save the season, but he didn’t sink it either. He competed. And that mattered.

Bol Bol​

Bol Bol’s season was mostly forgettable, save for one bizarre highlight: while the Suns and Rockets squared up mid-game, Bol was off to the side...practicing layups. That moment, reportedly not well-received by Coach Bud, pretty much summed up his year.

Bol Bol getting dropped from the Suns rotation for the season by Coach Bud for not having Plumlee’s back in the Adams scuffle is hilarious https://t.co/OQ7F1Lu584 pic.twitter.com/DKvQqexEpA

— Steven Adams Stats (@funakistats) April 19, 2025​

We had high hopes entering the season. Thought maybe he’d turned a corner. Nope. His three-point shot regressed, his court awareness was still lacking, and his basketball IQ never quite caught up. Despite a 25-point outburst with five threes that teased what could be, Bol never earned a real role.

The tools are still there. The intrigue is still there. But the clock is ticking, and so far, it feels like he’s still more myth than material.

Mason Plumlee​

Mason Plumlee’s season with the Suns wasn’t exactly by design. Originally brought in to back up Jusuf Nurkic, the coaching staff soured on Nurk, forcing Plumlee into more of a starting role. It wasn’t pretty, but Plumlee kept grinding.

He was steady, never flashy, and a rare source of consistent effort on a team that often lacked it. Kevin Durant’s occasional shouts at him were a testament to the frustration, but Plumlee kept his head down and played through it.

The high point? That memorable, gritty clash with Steven Adams shown above. That altercation summed up his season: intensity, frustration, and a refusal to back down. He wasn’t the solution, but for a team in chaos, Plumlee’s edge stood out.

Monte Morris​

Monte Morris started the season as a reliable bench option for the Suns, offering steady contributions in limited minutes. Through the first 48 games, he averaged 5 points and 1.7 assists per night, with eight double-digit performances that highlighted his value.

But his 30.4% shooting from three became a glaring issue, and as the season progressed, his role diminished. By the final 34 games, Morris saw just seven appearances. Despite his early flashes, his struggles from beyond the arc and inconsistent role ultimately kept him from carving out a more significant spot in the Suns’ rotation.

Collin Gillespie​

Collin Gillespie’s rise from a two-way contract to a key contributor for the Suns showcased his resilience and skill.

After dominating with the Valley Suns, averaging 21.2 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 11.1 assists, he made his Phoenix debut in October but got his real chance in January. His turning point came on March 4th with clutch shots against the Clippers. Gillespie’s best performance arrived on March 26th against the Timberwolves, scoring 22 points, grabbing 10 rebounds, and dishing 5 assists while shooting 9-of-11 from the field and 4-of-5 from three, without a single free throw attempt.

His ability to step up in crucial moments highlighted his potential as a future asset for the Suns.

Cody Martin​

Martin’s stint with the Suns was brief and marred by injury, as he was sidelined with a sports hernia when acquired in March. In his 14 appearances, he averaged just 14 minutes a game and took only 4.1 shots per night, his lowest since his rookie season. His shooting was inconsistent, hitting 50% or better in only five games, and struggling in nine others with under 35%.

He didn’t have enough of an impact to be considered a significant factor in the Suns’ struggles, but his best performance came in a key win against the Cleveland Cavaliers, where he contributed 4 points, 6 rebounds, 2 steals, and a block in a rare bright spot.

Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty Images

Damion Lee​

Damion Lee’s season was defined less by his on-court play and more by his personal journey. His emotional Media Day speech, where he opened up about battling depression and overcoming a major injury, set the tone for a year that never quite materialized.

Despite his efforts, Lee barely made an impact once the season started. He struggled to find his role, and his best game was an 11-point performance in a lopsided loss to Denver, which accounted for nearly 13% of his total points for the season. With just 83 points on the year, it was a far cry from the contribution many expected from the veteran guard.

Unfortunately, it wasn’t the comeback season Lee or the Suns had hoped for.

Vasilije Micic​

Vasilije Micic’s time with the Phoenix Suns was a non-factor. Acquired at the trade deadline as part of the deal for Jusuf Nurkic, Micic was mainly a salary filler and was never expected to make a meaningful impact on the court.

In his five appearances with Phoenix, all in garbage time, he didn’t score or contribute much beyond a turnover in one brief eight-minute stint. His lack of action wasn’t due to any specific reason or injury, but rather because he simply didn’t fit into the rotation. Micic spent most of his time inactive, serving more as an observer than a player, and ultimately, his role with the Suns was as expected. Minimal.

TyTy Washington, Jr.​

TyTy Washington’s transition from the G League to the Suns was a tough one. In 16 games, he logged just 118 minutes, totaling 35 points. His best performance came in a 25-minute stint against Houston, where he scored 11 points.

Despite flashes of potential, the jump to the NBA was a struggle. His 16 assists in those minutes weren’t terrible, but they didn’t indicate he could lead an offense. Defensively, he showed effort, but against stronger, quicker guards, that effort wasn’t enough. The hope was that his G League confidence would translate, but it never fully materialized.

Jalen Bridges​

Jalen Bridges was peak James Jones: seasoned, low-risk, and built in a lab to shoot corner threes. Four years in college, 6’8”, and just enough athleticism to justify a flyer.

He got the classic two-way treatment. 30 NBA minutes, all garbage time, every shot a three. No creation, no chaos, just catch-and-shoot reps while the buzzer ticked down. His real work came in the G League, where he was solid. 14.3 points, efficient splits, playoff berth.

But that leap from “hmm, interesting” to “hold on, we’ve got something” never happened. No flashes. No buzz. Just a guy doing his job. Maybe he gets another look. Maybe he’s just another G Leaguer who almost made it. That’s the math on two-way bets. Most don’t cash.

Final Grades​

We wrote, we graded, and you chimed in. Below are the final marks. Each player’s grade from our writers, your input included, and our take on their chances of returning next season.

---

And that, my friends, is the end.

No more deep dives. No more player recaps. This is the final word on the 2024–25 Phoenix Suns. We’ll reference this season forever. The weight of expectations, the bloated payroll, the slow unraveling. It’ll linger. But this level of detail? This kind of dissection? We’re closing that chapter. I’m closing it.

This took far too long, and it’s time to move on.

---

Listen to the latest podcast episode of the Suns JAM Session Podcast below. Stay up to date on every episode, subscribe to the pod on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, YouTube Podcasts, Amazon Music, Podbean, Castbox.

Please subscribe, rate, and review.

Source: https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/...-recap-analysis-roster-grades-final-breakdown

 

[Phoenix Suns]

Game Recap: Mercury struggle to take care of basketball in 84-79 loss to Golden State

Michael Chow/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The Mercury committed 17 turnovers and blew a 15-point lead in their final preseason game.

Turnovers and a poor shooting night sunk the Phoenix Mercury (0-2 preseason) in their 84-79 loss against the visiting Golden State Valkyries (1-1) Sunday afternoon at PHX Arena.

The Mercury shot 26-of-64 from the field (40.6%) and committed 18 turnovers that led to 32 Golden State points in the loss.

Satou Sabally and Alyssa Thomas, two members of the Phoenix ‘Big 3,’ each had 15 points. Neither player entered the game in the fourth quarter after the Mercury surrendered a 22-7 third-quarter run and lost a lead as large as 15.

Phoenix is off for five days before it opens its regular season Saturday against former guard Skylar Diggins and the Seattle Storm.

Here is how the game played out.

First Quarter

Phoenix’s offense will be heavily reliant on Sabally, who had four 3-pointers in the loss, Thomas and Kahleah Copper. Copper, who averaged the third-most points in the WNBA this past season, missed the game with a back injury.

Phoenix trailed 15-14 after the first quarter, struggling to find scoring outside of Thomas, who had six points. Sabally and starting center Natasha Mack each contributed three points.

Alyssa Thomas: 6 PTS (2-of-5 FG), 4 REB, 1 AST
Satou Sabally: 3 PTS, 3 REB
Natasha Mack: 3 PTS, 3 REB

Kayla Thornton: 9 PTS (3-of-7 FG), 3 REB

Both teams are struggling on offense. The Mercury were 5-of-18 and missed six of their seven 3s. Golden State is shooting 6-of-20…

— Trevor Booth (@TrevorMBooth) May 11, 2025​

Second Quarter

Sabally’s nickname is the “Unicorn” because of her guard-like skillset at 6-foot-4. She showed she is going to be very capable for Phoenix in the pick-and-roll and pick-and-pop actions.

Her nine second-quarter points led the Mercury, who scored ten straight points to take a 24-18 lead and led at halftime by seven.

Here are some highlights from the period:

Third Quarter

After they led by 15 points, Phoenix surrendered a 22-7 run and watched Valkyries guard Migna Toure score nine of her 19 points in the third. Golden State also was 7-of-14 from deep.

Fourth Quarter

No matter how hard the Mercury fought, they could not overcome Golden State’s offense in their eventual defeat.

---

Listen to the latest podcast episode of the Suns JAM Session Podcast below. Stay up to date on every episode, subscribe to the pod on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, YouTube Podcasts, Amazon Music, Podbean, Castbox.

Please subscribe, rate, and review.

Source: https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/...den-state-valkyries-alyssa-thomas-migna-toure

 

[Phoenix Suns]

The Rockets want no part of the Suns' stars

Photo by Kate Frese/NBAE via Getty Images

Durant doesn’t match their timeline, and Booker’s “struggles last season shifted the thinking”.

As teams begin to bow out of the NBA postseason, a familiar ritual begins. Internal reflection. A first-round exit stings. It tells you you’re close, but not close enough. Something’s off. A tweak, a shift in philosophy, a calculated gamble, that’s often what separates a seven-game loss from a deep playoff run.

The Houston Rockets find themselves at that crossroads. After a breakout 52–30 season and clinching the West’s second seed, they were bounced in Round 1 by the Golden State Warriors. A young, hungry team built on defense, athleticism, and just enough veteran savvy. But not enough to matter.

As The Athletic’s Kelly Iko and Sam Amick report, Houston is turning inward, looking for ways to grow, not detonate.

They hold Phoenix’s lottery pick, and with it, a vault of potential. That makes them a frequent flyer in the trade-machine fantasy world, where Kevin Durant or Devin Booker are often shipped off to Houston in bold, pixel-born blockbusters.

Reality? Houston isn’t biting. Reports say there’s no appetite for Durant, no vision that includes mortgaging their future for a 36-year-old star. Not every team is wired like Phoenix.

Per Iko and Amick:

While Durant is widely seen as the most attainable of that group, and he is known to be very interested in playing in Houston, team sources said the Rockets still have significant reservations about that possible partnership, in large part, because Durant’s age (36) would be so out of sync with their younger timeline. It’s worth noting that previous talks between the teams about Durant, team sources said, were initiated by the Suns.

Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty Images

And as for Devin Booker? There’s no smoke there, either.

The Rockets have previously held serious interest in the Suns’ Devin Booker, but team sources said that is no longer the case. Not only do team officials still have faith in Jalen Green, who is five years younger than Booker and $66 million cheaper over the next three seasons, but also Booker’s struggles last season shifted the thinking on this front.

It’s a prime example of how attitude and effort shape everything.

Devin Booker struggled this past season. By his standards, it was one of his least impactful years since his early days in Phoenix. He still finished 12th in league scoring, but the numbers masked what was plain to see: going through the motions isn’t the same as leading.

Meanwhile, the Houston Rockets play with nightly purpose. Intent. Hunger. The kind of drive the Suns lacked. Phoenix looked like a team hoping to coast into the postseason. They never made it.

The cost? Booker’s stock “took a hit”.

Did it really, though? Was Devin Booker ever truly within reach for the Houston Rockets?

Mat Ishbia has been clear: Booker isn’t on the table. He’s the franchise centerpiece. A star in his prime, the foundation of whatever this next chapter in Phoenix is supposed to be. Whether you agree with that direction or not, it’s the stance. The organization is building around him.

So why the noise out of Houston? Is this a calculated leak, a subtle way to reaffirm belief in Jalen Green, a young shooting guard who could use the boost? Because make no mistake, he struggled this postseason. He shot 29.5% from three, averaged just 13.3 points on 37.2% shooting this postseason, numbers that look even rougher when you subtract that lone 38-point outburst in Game 2.

So sure, the Rockets aren’t pursuing Booker, a player who was never actually available. Smart move. Clean optics. A little PR sleight of hand. Nothing wrong with playing the game.

For those firmly planted in the “Trade Devin Booker to Houston” camp, this development stings. It weakens your argument, deepens the frustration, and leaves you wondering what viable paths remain. As we march further into the Valley of the Shadow of the Offseason, the answers will start to take shape.

But for now, go ahead and cross “Booker to Houston” off your list.

---

Listen to the latest podcast episode of the Suns JAM Session Podcast below. Stay up to date on every episode, subscribe to the pod on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, YouTube Podcasts, Amazon Music, Podbean, Castbox.

Please subscribe, rate, and review.

Source: https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/...booker-or-kevin-durant-hold-phoenix-suns-pick

 

[Phoenix Suns]

Houston secures 10th pick from Suns in aftermath of failed season

Photo by Kena Krutsinger/NBAE via Getty Images

And Dallas ended up with the top pick in quite the interesting twist.

As much as we’d love to close the book on the 2024–25 Phoenix Suns, one last thread remains untied. The fate of their draft pick.

We’ve recapped the season. We’ve graded every player. But before we move on completely, we have to address what the Suns gave up…and what they got in return.

Phoenix ended the year in rare company: the only team to miss the Play-In, the playoffs, and the NBA Draft Lottery. Why? Because their first-round pick, once theirs by right, now belongs to someone else.

29 teams are either in the Playoffs, the Play-in, or the Draft Lottery

Phoenix is the ONLY team not included in any of it https://t.co/Y8Jju56n4n

— Stevie (@RaptorsShaq) April 9, 2025​

That 2025 first-round pick, now in Houston’s hands, was originally part of the blockbuster deal that brought Kevin Durant to Phoenix in February 2022. The Suns sent that pick — along with their 2023 first, a 2028 pick swap, their 2029 first, and the trio of Mikal Bridges, Cameron Johnson, and Jae Crowder — to Brooklyn in pursuit of a championship window.

So, despite finishing with the league’s ninth-worst record, the Suns walk away from the lottery empty-handed. Instead, the Rockets had Hakeem Olajuwon in attendance to represent Houston at the draft lottery, sitting right next to Portland’s Toumani Camara.

On Monday night, the NBA Draft Lottery made it official: Houston will pick 10th.

The doomsday scenario has been averted. https://t.co/nfNZXmC9B7

— John Voita, III (@DarthVoita) May 12, 2025​

There’s nothing the Suns can do now. The pick is gone. But it’s at least a small comfort that the doomsday scenario didn’t come to pass. The Rockets didn’t jump into the top three. They didn’t leapfrog the league and steal the No. 1 pick. For Suns fans, that would’ve been a cruel twist to a season already defined by frustration.

Instead, the lottery delivered one final plot twist: the Dallas Mavericks, owners of a 1.8% chance and architects of the most polarizing trade in years — the midseason deal that sent Luka Doncic elsewhere — defied the odds and landed the No. 1 overall pick.

The official 2025 NBA Draft lottery order:

1. Mavs
2. Spurs
3. Sixers
4. Hornets
5. Jazz
6. Wizards
7. Pelicans
8. Nets
9. Raptors
10. Rockets (via Suns)
11. Trail Blazers
12. Bulls
13. Hawks (via Kings)
14. Spurs (via Hawks) pic.twitter.com/FkPdrcmNWq

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) May 12, 2025​

The Utah Jazz, who had the best odds of winning the draft lottery, ended up with the 5th overall pick.

---

Listen to the latest podcast episode of the Suns JAM Session Podcast below. Stay up to date on every episode, subscribe to the pod on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, YouTube Podcasts, Amazon Music, Podbean, Castbox.

Please subscribe, rate, and review.

Source: https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/...2025-nba-lottery-results-mavericks-number-one

 

[Phoenix Suns]

Suns expected to name a new head coach by late May or early June

Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Gambo says not to expect a new Suns coach this week as search continues.

The Phoenix Suns are preparing to welcome their fourth head coach in as many seasons. It will be the first coaching decision made under new general manager Brian Gregory, and the approach reflects that shift in philosophy.

Gone is the urgency to grab the biggest name or the most decorated résumé. Instead, the Suns are moving deliberately, taking their time to identify a leader who aligns with the identity they’re trying to cultivate. They seek a coach who fits the vision, not just the headline.

So when will the next head coach be named? Don’t hold your breath for news today. According to Arizona Sports Suns’ insider John Gambadoro, the timeline is stretching into late May, and possibly even June. Because this time, Phoenix isn’t rushing. They’re searching for the right fit, not the fastest fix.

The Phoenix Suns have cast a wide net in their search for the next head coach reaching out to and interviewing 15-20 candidates. The 2nd-round should begin soon but I would not expect a final decision this week or next. Most likely closer to the end of the month or early June.

— John Gambadoro (@Gambo987) May 13, 2025​

Part of you wants to applaud the Suns for taking this search seriously. For not rushing into another impulsive hire, but instead vetting up to 20 candidates, leaving no stone unturned. It signals an intention to build something lasting. To find a head coach who isn’t just a one-season placeholder, but someone who can anchor the franchise for the long haul.

But that same deliberate process carries its own weight.

Imagine being one of those candidates. You know the culture in Phoenix. You’ve seen the revolving door on the sidelines. You’re aware that ownership is laser-focused on winning, and winning now. And when the word “accountability” gets thrown around, it’s rarely applied to players. It falls squarely, and sometimes unfairly, on the head coach.

The challenge with waiting, of course, is that the NBA calendar doesn’t pause for reflection.

The draft is approaching. Free agency looms. Trades are being discussed. And while roster decisions fall largely under the jurisdiction of general manager Brian Gregory, any attempt to build a cohesive identity requires input from the person tasked with leading that roster, night after night, practice after practice.

That’s likely why this coaching search is stretching into late May, maybe even June. Because it’s not just about hiring a tactician. It’s about finding someone who sees the game the way Brian Gregory..er..Mat Ishbia does.

Until then, the process continues. Deliberate, patient, and measured. And once the hire is finally made? The whirlwind begins. Press conferences. Player introductions. Draft boards. Free agent meetings. A crash course in a roster that’s already been built, and one that may not leave much room for your fingerprints.

Or maybe that’s the point. Maybe the role is already defined, the decisions already charted. Maybe the vision belongs to the top, and the coach’s job is simply to carry it out.

---

Listen to the latest podcast episode of the Suns JAM Session Podcast below. Stay up to date on every episode, subscribe to the pod on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, YouTube Podcasts, Amazon Music, Podbean, Castbox.

Please subscribe, rate, and review.

Source: https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/...-late-may-june-mat-ishbia-gambo-brian-gregory

 

[Phoenix Suns]

Should the Phoenix Suns make a move for their original 2025 first-round pick?

Patrick Breen/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

With so much uncertainty surrounding the Suns, this might be one of the biggest questions yet.

As we all know, the Phoenix Suns were the only team this season that did not make the playoffs or were present in the NBA Draft Lottery. This is due to the aggressive nature of ownership in their attempt to build a championship contender following their 2021 NBA Finals appearance. The Suns may have leaned too far into that identity, and it is now costing them the ability to build for the present and the future.

The Brooklyn Nets had our 2025 first-round pick from the Kevin Durant trade. The Nets then flipped this pick to the Houston Rockets in exchange for their picks after completing the Mikal Bridges deal. This was the ultimate link between Houston and Phoenix before the season started, and led fans to draw connections between the two franchises.

Ahead of the 2025 NBA Draft lottery, Suns fans were filled with plenty of nerves. Awaiting what they thought would be the worst possible outcome, and luckily, they were not granted that.

Following the 2025 NBA Draft Lottery, the Rockets secured the 10th overall pick. This was a positive sign for fans everywhere, even if teams like Dallas and San Antonio jumped up; at least it was not the other Texas team, which we had all been hoping would not move up.

Can you imagine how fans would have reacted after a terrible season if we had secured the number one pick but were unable to acquire it? It would be an absolute disaster, but luckily, we are not in that scenario. Even if we are in a challenging situation,

With all that being said, I wanted to ask the fans: Do you think they should trade for this #10 overall pick in the 2025 Draft? Based on recent updates, we know the Rockets are not interested in the Suns’ stars as much as the Suns are willing to offload them to Houston.

Even though that is the case, I still think Houston would reconsider this deal, all depending on the haul they have to give up. Phoenix is said to want a significant return for Durant, and if testing the waters with other teams at this high asking price does not work, they can always revisit other teams and lower the asking price. This is something that, as we get closer to the start of free agency, I could see happen to a team looking to make a desperation move, and Houston, even if they say they don’t need it, may actually do need it with the rise of the Western Conference

---

Listen to the latest podcast episode of the Suns JAM Session Podcast below. Stay up to date on every episode, subscribe to the pod on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, YouTube Podcasts, Amazon Music, Podbean, Castbox.

Please subscribe, rate, and review.

Source: https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/...ix-reacquire-2025-nba-draft-pick-from-rockets

 

[Phoenix Suns]

Suns JAM Session Podcast: Draft Lottery Chaos

Shooting the shit about the Phoenix Suns since 2019.

The NBA Draft Lottery was absolute chaos. Unpredictable. Maybe rigged (we’re lookin’ at you, Adam Silver ). We’re breaking it all down and what it means for the Phoenix Suns — because of course, it always somehow affects us.

• Click the SUBSCRIBE button.
• Click the BELL to turn on notifications.

Watch it right here!

---

Listen to the latest podcast episode of the Suns JAM Session Podcast below. Stay up to date on every episode, subscribe to the pod on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, YouTube Podcasts, Amazon Music, Podbean, Castbox.

Please subscribe, rate, and review.

Source: https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/2025/5/14/24429529/suns-jam-session-podcast-draft-lottery-chaos

 

[Phoenix Suns]

The Suns are picking 29th again and hoping this time is different

Photo by Barry Gossage/NBAE via Getty Images

Here’s a look back at the Phoenix Suns’ history drafting from the 29th spot.

Draft season has officially arrived now that the NBA Draft Lottery is behind us. No, the Phoenix Suns won’t be picking 10th overall. We all know that pick belongs to the Houston Rockets, the cost of a window that never quite opened. But they will be selecting at 29 and 52, and for new general manager Brian Gregory, who has expressed an appreciation for player development, that presents an opportunity. A chance to infuse the organization with two more young prospects, to build something sustainable beneath the star-studded surface.

The Suns took a similar approach last year, selecting Ryan Dunn and Oso Ighodaro with the 28th and 40th picks. Quiet additions, but meaningful ones, especially for a team desperate to find balance between experience and youth. So, for those clamoring for the Suns to get younger, they are. As long as they keep the picks.

This won’t be the first time Phoenix holds the 29th overall pick. In fact, June 25 will mark the fifth such occasion in franchise history. The past results? Mixed. Two of those selections never suited up in a Suns uniform. One never truly panned out. Another was packaged in a trade alongside a franchise icon. So is 29 a lucky number? A cursed one? Or is this finally the year it yields something different?

And that brings us here, on the edge of summer, staring down the unknown. So let’s do what we always do when the games stop and the speculation begins. Let’s take that familiar offseason detour down memory lane and revisit the Suns’ history at 29.

1970: Joe DePre​

The Phoenix Suns’ first flirtation with the 29th overall pick came all the way back in the 1970 NBA Draft, back when the 29th pick was actually the 12th selection of the second round. With it, they selected a 6’3” shooting guard out of St. John’s: Joe DePre.

Ring a bell? Probably not. That’s because DePre never played a single minute for the Suns.

The pick itself was acquired from the Philadelphia 76ers, who sent it to Phoenix in exchange for Bill Melchionni. Melchionni had originally been drafted by the Sixers, only to be snagged by the Suns in the 1968 expansion draft. It seems Philly had second thoughts. And Phoenix obliged. For the record, Melchionni never suited up for the Suns either.

As for DePre, his time in Phoenix was over before it began. Waived prior to the start of the season, he would go on to play three years with the ABA’s New York Nets. A short, unremarkable career and a forgettable chapter in Suns history.

But hey, every franchise has to start somewhere with a pick that ends in disappointment.

1994: Antonio Lang​

Here’s a name that might ring a bell for Suns fans: Antonio Lang.

A versatile forward out of Duke, Lang was selected with the 29th overall pick in the 1994 NBA Draft, which was the second pick of the second round. The Suns, fresh off a 56–26 season and a second-round playoff exit at the hands of the eventual champion Houston Rockets, had acquired the pick through a winding path. Originally belonging to the Detroit Pistons, it was passed to San Antonio, then flipped to Phoenix in a 1993 trade for Negele Knight.

Lang arrived in the desert with a pedigree — four years at Duke, two national championships under Coach K — but injuries quickly stalled his momentum. He suited up for just 12 games during his rookie campaign.

So why is his name still remembered? Because of what came next.

In 1995, Lang was packaged in a trade that sent Dan Majerle, an integral part of the 1993 Finals run, out of Phoenix. The Suns received Hot Rod Williams in return, and in doing so, closed a chapter on a beloved era of Suns basketball. Lang may not have made a major on-court impact, but his name is forever tethered to one of the more emotionally charged trades in franchise history.

2007: Alando Tucker​

Ah, Alando Tucker. The final pick of the first round in 2007.

I remember the Suns selecting him out of Wisconsin and thinking, ‘maybe this is the guy’. Maybe he’d be the bridge, the next wave to carry Phoenix beyond the Seven Seconds or Less era. There was reason to believe it, too. He was a seasoned college scorer with athleticism, leadership, and a motor. A natural fit, at least on paper.

And after all, the Suns had spent the three previous drafts giving away talent that could’ve helped build that bridge: Rajon Rondo in 2006, Nate Robinson in 2005, Luol Deng in 2004. All drafted. All traded. Tucker felt like a chance to potentially course-correct. A player they might actually keep. A step toward seeing the long game rather than cashing out early.

But it never materialized.

Over three seasons in Phoenix, Tucker appeared in just 47 games. Understandable, in hindsight. This was the tail end of Seven Seconds or Less. Every rotation spot mattered. Every minute was about chasing a championship. There was no room for projects, and Tucker, despite the hope, was just that. A project. And one who didn’t fit the system. On a team built around spacing and shooting, he hit just 29.4% from deep. He averaged 4.3 points and 1.0 rebounds per game.

Eventually, the Suns shipped him out with cash in exchange for Jason Hart, who never suited up for Phoenix. Another dead end. Another missed opportunity in a string of them.

2021 Day’Ron Sharpe​

The last time the Suns held the 29th overall pick, they didn’t use it for themselves. In the 2021 NBA Draft, Phoenix selected Day’Ron Sharpe, but it was on behalf of the Brooklyn Nets.

That pick, along with Javon Carter, had been dealt to Brooklyn in exchange for Landry Shamet. And we all know how that story ends. A short stint, a few flashes, and ultimately a player who never quite became what the Suns hoped he’d be. Another move made in pursuit of ready-now help, and another pick shipped off that could’ve contributed to a longer-term foundation.

---

So what have we really learned about pick No. 29? For the Phoenix Suns, it’s been little more than a dead end. The most mileage they’ve ever gotten from it was Alando Tucker and his 47 games across three unremarkable seasons. Hardly the kind of return that justifies banging the drum for production at that draft slot.

But maybe this year will be different.

Maybe the Suns, a team still searching for an identity, will stumble into a player who reflects the values they’ve yet to fully define. Maybe they’ll find someone worth developing, someone worth believing in. Maybe, for once, the 29th pick won’t be a footnote.

Maybe.

---

Listen to the latest podcast episode of the Suns JAM Session Podcast below. Stay up to date on every episode, subscribe to the pod on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, YouTube Podcasts, Amazon Music, Podbean, Castbox.

Please subscribe, rate, and review.

Source: https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/...draft-history-pick-29-prospects-brian-gregory

 

[Phoenix Suns]

Hornets’ Josh Longstaff is being considered by the Suns for head coaching vacancy

Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images

Boy, the Suns sure do love talking to Charlotte about things.

The Phoenix Suns’ coaching search rolls on, and while patience is often preached this time of year, it’s clear the front office is casting a wide net. And dragging it slowly across the ocean floor. With the hire expected in late May or early June, the organization appears intent on exhausting every possibility. Word is that somewhere between 15 to 20 candidates have either been interviewed or are on the docket.

No stone is being left unturned. And some of the stones are…curious.

According to HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto, one of the names in the mix is Josh Longstaff, an assistant with the Charlotte Hornets.

Sources: Hornets assistant Josh Longstaff is among the candidates for the Suns head coaching job. He was an assistant for Bulls coach Billy Donovan, former Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer, Team USA for Jeff Van Gundy, Erie BayHawks head coach, a Knicks assistant, and worked for OKC.

— Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) May 15, 2025​

That’s right. The Hornets. “The very image of sustained success and stability,” Voita said with a Monster energy drink in one hand and a pocket full of sarcasm in his pocket. Has Voita gone third person?! What is happening??

There is a connection between Charlotte and Phoenix that can’t be ignored. Every trade the Suns made at the deadline last season had Charlotte’s fingerprints on it. Two separate deals. Two separate paths crossing. So if Josh Longstaff were to land in Phoenix, odds are he’d walk into a room with more than a few familiar faces.

“Hey, what up Nick!”

Longstaff’s journey through the league reads like a grind-it-out résumé, built on the back end of benches and behind the curtain of player development. He started as a player personnel video coordinator in Oklahoma City, gradually climbing into the roles of video analyst and player development coach. He spent three seasons with the Knicks, where he worked closely with Kristaps Porziņģis during the Latvian’s early years. After that came a stint as head coach of the G League’s Erie BayHawks, followed by a move to Milwaukee to join Mike Budenholzer’s staff. He left just before the Bucks won a championship. His next stop? Four seasons with the middling Bulls. Then, one year ago, he joined Charlotte, another team still trying to find its footing.

It’s hard not to notice the trend.

Longstaff has been part of a lot of…projects. Teams that haven’t found the formula. That doesn’t mean he’s the problem, of course. No assistant coach carries the fate of an entire franchise. But when we talk about alignment, vision, and identity — about what a coach can imprint onto a team — you naturally start to wonder: what, exactly, is Longstaff’s brand? What would he bring to the table in Phoenix? Would it be something bold and new, or more of the same?

Odds are he’d be a good “yes man”, which is what the Suns are most likely looking for.

---

Listen to the latest podcast episode of the Suns JAM Session Podcast below. Stay up to date on every episode, subscribe to the pod on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, YouTube Podcasts, Amazon Music, Podbean, Castbox.

Please subscribe, rate, and review.

Source: https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/...h-longstaff-hornets-candidate-nba-rumors-news

 

[Phoenix Suns]

Former employees accuse Suns of misconduct as off-court controversies grow

Brett Davis-Imagn Images

The Phoenix Suns' summer just got a lot more complicated off the court.

As the Phoenix Suns brace for a pivotal summer, one that could reshape both their roster and their identity, they now find themselves navigating more than just basketball decisions. Alongside the uncertainty of coaching hires and roster construction, the organization is once again entangled in a series of legal battles that threaten to overshadow its on-court ambitions.

For a franchise that has struggled with cultural stability over the past decade, these latest allegations only deepen the cracks that began to show long before former owner Robert Sarver’s resignation in 2022. Now, with new claims surfacing and questions about internal conduct reigniting public scrutiny, the Suns are being forced to confront not just who they want to be as a team, but who they are as an organization.

In a detailed report first published by Baxter Holmes of ESPN, the scope of these allegations came to light, with Doug Haller of The Athletic offering further insight into the unfolding story.

The latest lawsuit was filed by attorneys representing Gene Traylor in U.S. District Court in Arizona. Traylor was hired in January of 2023 as the director of safety, security and risk management. Per the complaint, his responsibilities included evaluating the organization’s safety, financial and reputational risks.

In 2023, Traylor presented a security assessment that he alleges led to retaliation from management and ultimately a demotion. The presentation, viewed by The Athletic, included specific examples of incidents that Traylor said put the organization at risk. Among them:

In March of 2023, a former “team associate” was found to have stolen more than $40,000 in player shoes, apparel and merchandise.

In April of 2023, a “disgruntled subject” attempted to disrupt a photo op that included then-general manager James Jones and CEO Josh Bartelstein.

In June of 2023, a “political influencer” harassed former Phoenix Mercury star Brittney Griner as she walked through a Dallas airport.

The complaint also alleges the Suns failed multiple arena security tests. According to the lawsuit, the Phoenix Police Department’s Homeland Defense Bureau conducted field tests in 2023 and 2024 during which plainclothes officers successfully smuggled weapons into the arena.

The Suns firmly deny the allegation, asserting through ESPN that they have never failed a security audit.

Notably, Sheree Wright, who now represents Traylor, also stood for Andrea Trischan, a former team official in charge of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Trischan previously sued the organization, alleging racial discrimination and unlawful retaliation that ultimately cost her the job.

Two different cases. Two different voices. But the same attorney. And a pattern the organization can’t easily dismiss.

From ESPN:

“The common denominator is Sheree Wright. She is trying to extort the Suns organization,” a Suns spokeswoman told ESPN on Thursday. “Ms. Wright continues to recruit former and now current employees and is manipulating them to file meritless lawsuits.”

“The Supreme Court of Arizona has twice disciplined attorney Sheree Wright for committing numerous violations of the rules of professional conduct, and she is currently serving a two-year probation with the State Bar of Arizona,” a Suns spokeswoman told ESPN on Thursday.

Earlier in April, the Phoenix Suns faced two more legal and public allegations. One came from a former employee who accused a former Suns executive of racial and gender discrimination, sexual harassment, and retaliation, with Sheree Wright representing the case.

Around the same time, Vicente Gonzales, a former senior team member relations specialist, publicly alleged misconduct via LinkedIn, claiming he was silenced after raising staff concerns and that the Suns lack a proper system to investigate internal issues. The post was later deleted, but the message added yet another voice to a growing chorus of criticism aimed at the team’s organizational culture.

---

Typically, I’m more than happy to offer my two cents on all things Phoenix Suns. Whether it be a trade rumor, a roster tweak, a questionable defensive rotation, or the latest coaching decision, speculation is part of the fun. But when it comes to legal matters, I’ll defer. I’m no lawyer, and these are serious allegations with implications far beyond the hardwood.

We will continue to monitor the legal process and provide updates as appropriate.

---

Listen to the latest podcast episode of the Suns JAM Session Podcast below. Stay up to date on every episode, subscribe to the pod on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, YouTube Podcasts, Amazon Music, Podbean, Castbox.

Please subscribe, rate, and review.

Source: https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/...ion-allegations-organizational-culture-ishbia

 

[Phoenix Suns]

Robert Horry finally explains the moment that ended his Suns stint

Photo by Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images

A towel. Danny Ainge’s face. And the story that led to the moment.

There are a few moments in Phoenix Suns history that stand apart from the rest. Moments etched in memory, some beloved, some bizarre, and others so surreal you have to double-check they actually happened. Sure, there are iconic highlights like the Valley-Oop. But if you really dig into the Suns’ archives, you’ll uncover a treasure trove of wild and often forgotten chapters. Moments that drift between folklore and fever dream.

One of those? January 5, 1997. Robert Horry. Towel. Danny Ainge’s face.

Ah yes, Robert Horry.

I’ve sports hated that man for a long, long time. He was part of those soul-crushing Houston Rockets teams that ripped my adolescent heart out. Twice. That era included Mario Elie’s infamous “Kiss of Death,” which prompted me, in true teenage fashion, to hurl a remote control into the concrete floor of my living room.

Maybe that’s part of what made Horry so infuriating. He always found a way into your nightmares. But that towel toss? That was personal.

Recently, Horry joined Wosny Lambre on In My Feelings with Big Wos, a Ringer podcast, and for the first time in a long time, opened up about the infamous moment that forever tied his name to Phoenix lore, not for the rings, not for the Rockets, but for that one unfiltered act of rebellion.

A towel, a coach, and a moment that would become part of Suns history, whether we like it or not.

“Mario Ellie, my boy. Danny Ainge takes the ball out. They’re down. We about to win the game. He takes it and throws it and hits Mario right in the face with the ball,” Horry begins to explain, referring to when he was playing against the Suns as a member of the Houston Rockets, and Danny Ainge played for the Suns.

“You know, a couple years later, I get traded,” Horry continued.

Robert Horry arrived in Phoenix in 1996, part of the package — alongside Chucky Brown, Mark Bryant, and Sam Cassell — that the Suns received in exchange for Charles Barkley. It marked a changing of the guard in more ways than one. Just months earlier, Danny Ainge had hung up his sneakers after a 14-year playing career and returned to the Suns not as a scorer, but as an assistant coach, stepping into a new chapter as the franchise reshaped its identity.

“And so, we walking in the hallway and they’re showing us the facilities, Sam Cassell and I. And he [Danny Ainge] was like, ‘I hit Mario on the face on purpose with the ball.’ And so now all this animosity is starting to build up.”

“We got beat by like 40 by Chicago. And we were like, ‘Well, our offense...’, I say, ‘You know what? Can I say something? We keep talking about our offense, man. We got beat by 40. What about our defense?’ And then Danny’s like, ‘You’re the worst defensive player on the team.’ I’m like, ‘Whoa, dude.’”

“And then we traded away Michael Finley, who’s my boy,” Horry explained. “We trade away AC Green, and my dog Sam Cassell got traded. [Ainge] said, ‘Well, we traded away those people to give you more time.’”

“So we go to Boston. I had I had three great plays in a row, and all of a sudden he sits me for Danny Manning. I said, ‘Dude, I’m playing good.’ He said, ‘Man, go sit your ass down at the end of the bench.’”

Ah, here comes the fireworks.

“What did this mother say? I got up and I said, ‘What did you fucking say to me?’And he said, ‘I said, go said, man.’ And I threw the towel in his face and walked down early in the bin. We went back to Phoenix. They suspended me for two games.”

“After that,” Horry finished, “Danny called me on the phone and said, ‘I hate to say this, I just probably won you some more championships.’ I’m like, ‘What do you mean by that?’ ‘We just traded you to the Lakers.’ And I was like, ‘Yes.’ I hung up the phone. I didn’t even know. I didn’t ask who I was traded with, who I was traded for. I got in my car and drove to LA the next day.”

So why did Robert Horry throw the towel at Danny Ainge?

He explains to @BigWos on #InMyFeelings.

Tap in with the full episode here: https://t.co/GFXSABoSAC pic.twitter.com/gkiAJE2FSg

— RingerNBA (@ringernba) May 15, 2025​

Indeed. The Suns shipped Robert Horry off to the Lakers in exchange for Cedric Ceballos and Rumeal Robinson, a short-lived chapter in Phoenix that ended with a towel toss and a soured relationship.

Meanwhile, Horry’s story was just getting started. Already a two-time champion with the Rockets, he’d go on to win five more rings: three with the Lakers during their early-2000s dynasty (1999–2000, 2000–01, 2001–02) and two more with the Spurs in 2004–05 and 2006–07. Both of those Spurs teams, of course, ended the Suns’ season en route to lifting the Larry O’Brien trophy.

So, five of Horry’s seven titles came at the Suns’ expense. That’s not just a footnote. It’s a full-on vendetta from a Phoenix fan’s perspective.

I’ve always sports hated Robert Horry for that very reason. He was the shadow looming over some of the most promising Suns teams, twice as a Rocket during the Jordan-less void when Phoenix looked ready to ascend, and later as a key figure on the teams that broke our hearts in the mid-2000s. And after that infamous towel toss at Danny Ainge, who had morphed from feisty floor general to assistant coach, Horry was practically declared public enemy number one in the Valley.

But if I’m being honest, I get it. I see his point of view. He was a champion with standards. He saw dysfunction, and he acted out. Petulant? Maybe. But perhaps he knew what winning was supposed to look like. And Phoenix, in that moment, didn’t.

---

Listen to the latest podcast episode of the Suns JAM Session Podcast below. Stay up to date on every episode, subscribe to the pod on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, YouTube Podcasts, Amazon Music, Podbean, Castbox.

Please subscribe, rate, and review.

Source: https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/...suns-trade-lakers-championships-podcast-story

 

[Phoenix Suns]

Point guard options the Suns could explore in free agency

Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images

Tyus Jones and Monte Morris didn’t work out. So who will?

NBA free agency will be here before we know it. Sure, we’ve still got a month and a half until the dominoes start to fall, but the basketball doesn’t stop. The conference finals are upon us. The NBA Finals will follow. Then comes the whirlwind. The draft, the trades, the late-night Shams bombs. And just like that, we’re in the thick of offseason chaos.

But as we approach this particular offseason, I find myself in unfamiliar territory. For the first time in years, I genuinely have no idea what the Phoenix Suns are going to do.

In the past, it was simple: assess the roster, identify the needs, and cross-reference the free-agent market to find logical fits. That formula always gave us a reasonable map to work from. But this summer? This summer is different.

There’s the lingering possibility of a Kevin Durant trade. There’s the looming question of whether a Bradley Beal buyout becomes reality. There are too many levers, too many moving parts, and too many unknowns to confidently define what this roster needs, because we don’t even know what this roster is yet. My gut says it won’t look anything like what we saw last season.

Still, we press forward.

Over the coming days, we’ll walk through the free agent landscape. Not with the intention of predicting who the Suns will pursue, but rather to highlight players who could make sense. Guys whose skillsets align with what this team should be trying to accomplish, regardless of how the bigger picture shakes out.

We start with the point guard position.

It was a spot that featured names like Tyus Jones and Monte Morris last year. Both were capable, both were underutilized as facilitators. Instead of letting them run the offense, Phoenix continued to hand the keys to their shooting guards, asking their point guards to masquerade as floor-spacing wings. It was backwards. It was awkward. It was, frankly, emblematic of Mike Budenholzer’s “play random” philosophy.

Looking ahead, the market for point guards isn’t exactly overflowing with game-changers. But we’ll sift through it anyway. Because even if this roster is a question mark, clarity starts with the details.

And right now, it starts at point guard.

The name that immediately jumps off the list to me is Dennis Schröder.

He was a key piece in helping shift the culture in Detroit, which was a team full of young talent trying to figure out how to win. Schröder brought veteran leadership, Olympic experience, and a level of professionalism that helped steady the ship. If you’re looking for grit, hustle, and accountability, you’ll get it with him.

We don’t yet know what kind of salary he’ll command, or even what the Suns’ cap sheet will look like when the dust settles, but if you’re looking for someone who helps shape identity, Schröder is that guy. He’s a building block. Not the cornerstone, but a piece that helps others thrive.

Delon Wright is also on this list, and he’s someone I’ve always quietly liked. I had no idea he was already 33. That gives me pause. But if you’re looking to fill out the roster with a veteran on a minimum deal who won’t hurt you, he might be worth a look. Low risk, functional reward.

Then, of course, there’s Chris Paul.

Seeing his name next to that “40” just makes me feel older. CP3 will always hold a special place in Suns' history. He helped redefine the team’s culture in his mid-30s, turned them into contenders, and elevated everyone around him. Could he do it again? Maybe. But my guess is he stays in San Antonio. That team’s arrow is pointing up. Phoenix’s? That feels...unclear.

So the question now is: who on this list stands out to you? Who intrigues you? Who feels like a real possibility, someone who could step in and actually make this team better, not just fill a spot?

Let us know in the comments below.

---

Listen to the latest podcast episode of the Suns JAM Session Podcast below. Stay up to date on every episode, subscribe to the pod on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, YouTube Podcasts, Amazon Music, Podbean, Castbox.

Please subscribe, rate, and review.

Source: https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/...s-options-analysis-chris-paul-dennis-schroder

 

[Phoenix Suns]

Mercury stars Alyssa Thomas, Satou Sabally combine for 47 points in win over Storm

Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images

Without Kahleah Copper, Satou Sabally and Alyssa Thomas took care of business for the Phoenix Mercury in their season-opening win.

Without Kahleah Copper, the Phoenix Mercury took care of business in their 81-58 win over the Seattle Storm on Saturday night at PHX Arena.

Copper, who was the third-leading scorer in the WNBA (21.1 points per game) in 2024, will be out for four to six weeks after a successful left knee arthroscopy. The Mercury ‘Big 3’ may not be together for some time, but fans were treated to a masterful game from Satou Sabally and Alyssa Thomas, who made their presence felt in their respective first games in Phoenix.

Sabally, a two-time All-Star who was traded to Phoenix from the Dallas Wings, scored the most points (27) by a player in their Mercury debut. She made 9-of-17 field goals, including 3-of-9 3-pointers, and had six rebounds.

Thomas, the WNBA’s all-time leader in triple-doubles, paced the Mercury and had 20 points, seven rebounds and five assists.

Satou Sabally vs Seattle:

27 PTS
6 REB
2 BLK

The most points ever in a Mercury debut. pic.twitter.com/hJg0t6ANDg

— StatMuse (@statmuse) May 18, 2025​

Coach Nate Tibbetts expected many players to step up for his team, which returns just two players (Copper and Natasha Mack, who will be out two to three weeks with a lower back injury) from last year’s roster.

With Diana Taurasi (retired) and Brittney Griner (signed with Atlanta Dream) no longer in the fold, the Mercury will rely on their defense and strong play from Sabally and Thomas to weather the storm without Copper.

Here is more on how the game played out.

First Quarter ​

Without Copper, the Mercury needed to have big performances from Sabally, who is one of the game’s more versatile bigs, and Thomas, the all-time leader in WNBA history in triple-doubles.

The two combined for 14 first-quarter points, as the Mercury relied on two threes from Sabally and an all-around period from Thomas to build an eight-point lead.

Sabally is a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses. At 6-foot-4, she can handle the ball and shoot from the perimeter. Seattle’s defense struggled to guard her throughout the game. If it were not for her two fouls, she may have had an even bigger game than she did.

Coach Nate Tibbetts told reporters the Mercury would rely on Thomas as a roller for their main offensive option. She scored the first points of the season on this spin move into a right-handed layup.

SPLIT TWO DEFENDERS. pic.twitter.com/gzttSaa3bW

— Phoenix Mercury (@PhoenixMercury) May 18, 2025​

Sabally’s 3-pointer with 1:54 to go build the Mercury lead to 20-6. That was their largest lead of the first half.

Satou Sabally.
Absolute gamer.

She rolled her ankle after hitting a 3 and was slow to get up.

A few moments later, she hit another one. Looks like she's all good.

She leads the Mercury with 8 after the first quarter.@12SportsAZ pic.twitter.com/l0gijLkvPB

— Jake García (@Jake_M_Garcia) May 18, 2025​

Phoenix’s strong quarter was limited by two personal fouls on Sabally and five turnovers that led to nine Storm points.

Second Quarter ​

Take a bow, Satou Sabally and Alyssa Thomas.

The dynamic duo for the Mercury scored 16 of their 18 first-half points. By halftime, they combined for 30 points, seven rebounds, four assists, three steals and a block.

AND-1 for Satou Sabally

Seals in the post, powers through, and gets the finish.
She’s showing off the full inside-out game.... 16 PTS and counting in the first half!

Free on the WNBA App, courtesy of @CarMax pic.twitter.com/nBLywRhqmb

— WNBA (@WNBA) May 18, 2025​

Sabally was a team-best +9 in the quarter.

Third Quarter ​

The Mercury struggled collectively from beyond the arc, but their 3-point defense helped them build a lead as large as 18 in the third.

The Storm were 0-of-5 from three. Sabally and Thomas had 13 of the 19 Mercury points.

By the end of the period, six Mercury players recorded at least one steal. Combine that with Seattle’s 1-of-13 clip from three through three quarters, and you get a solid performance that Mercury coaches and fans can be happy about.

Alyssa Thomas is fired up after this and 1, giving the Phoenix Mercury their largest lead of the game. #wnba pic.twitter.com/STnuhCDwOG

— Danielle Hobeika (@DanielleHobeika) May 18, 2025​

The little dish to the left wing ending a Sami three.

WE LOVE IT. pic.twitter.com/7V39yxLS7f

— Phoenix Mercury (@PhoenixMercury) May 18, 2025​

Sabally missed all four of her 3-point attempts, but the defense was enough to build a lead that Seattle never overcame.

Fourth Quarter ​

Phoenix’s fourth quarter allowed many of its new faces to get some run.

Thomas credited the entire team for the win after the game. Center Kathryn Westbeld in her WNBA debut was a +16, finishing with nine points and five rebounds. She made two threes in the first quarter.

Starting guard Monique Akoa Makani was a +24 in the win, the highest of any Mercury player.

Next Up ​

Phoenix will play at home on Wednesday against Kelsey Plum, Rickea Jackson and the Los Angeles Sparks. The game tips off at 7 p.m. and will be televised by Arizona’s Family and Arizona’s Family Sports.

---

Listen to the latest podcast episode of the Suns JAM Session Podcast below. Stay up to date on every episode, subscribe to the pod on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, YouTube Podcasts, Amazon Music, Podbean, Castbox.

Please subscribe, rate, and review.

Source: https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/...bally-combine-for-47-points-in-win-over-storm

 

[Phoenix Suns]

Haynes: Suns narrow down coaching search to 8 candidates

Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The Phoenix Suns are advancing to the second round of their coaching search.

The Phoenix Suns have narrowed their coaching search down to 8 candidates, according to Chris Haynes.

Haynes said this is “round two” after an extensive first round with several candidates.

Sources: On Haynes Briefs, reporting on the Phoenix Suns narrowing the coaching search to the Elite 8 of candidates. Identifying the candidates and what the franchise is looking for. #haynesbriefs https://t.co/qAoZ2HFRqA

— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) May 18, 2025​

Haynes said the Suns' new General Manager Brian Gregory is “running the show” and the coaching search in Phoenix, as expected. The second round is about to start after the list has shrunk down to eight candidates.

Here is the full list of candidates:

• Sean Sweeney (Mavs)
• David Fizdale (Suns)
• James Borrego (Pelicans)
• Johnnie Bryant (Cavs)
• Jordan Ott (Cavs)
• Steve Hetzel (Nets)
• Micah Nori (Wolves)
• Dave Bliss (Thunder)

The 8 coaches that advanced:

Sean Sweeney
David Fizdale
James Borrego
Johnnie Bryant
Jordan Ott
Steve Hetzel
Micah Nori
Dave Bliss https://t.co/OKTvproOQT

— Zona (@AZSportsZone) May 18, 2025​

I am surprised not to see any of Royal Ivey, Chris Quinn, or Sam Cassell in there.

Micah Nori and Johnnie Bryant are the two who seem the most interesting right off the bat. Nori is in the Western Conference Finals with the Wolves, so they will likely have to wait on him.

The oldest candidates are 51 (Nori), 50 (Fizdale), and 47 (Borrego) with the rest of the group in their early 40’s and late 30’s.

Reggie Hildred-Imagn Images

Haynes mentions that building a program and “connecting with the stars” are two of the key points they are looking for in this search. Two things they lacked in recent years.

Overall, this list is underwhelming in my opinion.

Who is your top target in this group? Who should’ve been in the mix? Let us know in the comments.

Source: https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/...s-narrow-down-coaching-search-to-8-candidates

 

[Phoenix Suns]

Chris Quinn is one of the last men standing in the Suns coaching search

Photo by Eric Espada/NBAE via Getty Images

Initial reports did not include his name, but he is in fact still a finalist.

The Phoenix Suns’ head coaching search remains open, but not for long.

According to reports earlier today, the team has narrowed its candidate pool to eight names and will begin conducting interviews throughout the week. The goal? Whittle that group down to a final three.

Sources: On Haynes Briefs, reporting on the Phoenix Suns narrowing the coaching search to the Elite 8 of candidates. Identifying the candidates and what the franchise is looking for. #haynesbriefs https://t.co/qAoZ2HFRqA

— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) May 18, 2025​

One name notably absent from the initial reports was Miami Heat assistant Chris Quinn, a candidate I believe would be a strong hire, even in a challenging cycle like this one.

With the coaching market relatively bare and the Suns aiming to pair a first-time head coach with a first-time general manager, the margin for error is razor-thin. But if you’re looking for someone who understands what a winning environment looks like, who has helped nurture a culture of accountability and consistency, Quinn checks those boxes.

Despite the initial omission, both Jake Fischer and John Gambadoro have since confirmed that Quinn is indeed among the finalists.

Yes Chris Quinn has advanced to second phase of interviews. Lot of good options for Phoenix - probably a week away from getting to 3 finalists. https://t.co/wEoM4sYnV5

— John Gambadoro (@Gambo987) May 18, 2025​

That’s significant. Because this isn’t just about filling a vacancy. It’s about resetting the tone of a franchise that has cycled through three head coaches in the last three seasons.

Stability isn’t something you find. It’s something you build. And the Suns know that. At least we hope they do. That’s why they’re being methodical with this hire. They need someone who can not only connect with players in the present, but also shape a sustainable future.

This next coach won’t just inherit the job. He’ll inherit the responsibility of righting the ship, defining the vision, and finally installing a culture that lasts. We hope.

---

Listen to the latest podcast episode of the Suns JAM Session Podcast below. Stay up to date on every episode, subscribe to the pod on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, YouTube Podcasts, Amazon Music, Podbean, Castbox.

Please subscribe, rate, and review.

Source: https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/...s-quinn-miami-heat-candidate-phoenix-nba-news

 

[Phoenix Suns]

Looking for value in a not-so-valuable small forward market

Photo by Noah Graham/NBAE via Getty Images

Let’s build an identity through league minimum wings and hope!

The Phoenix Suns, just one season removed from posting the highest payroll in NBA history, are now led by a new general manager. One who, in his opening press conference, used words we haven’t heard in these parts for the better part of a decade: “player development” and the “draft”. Those terms don’t tend to show up in win-now vocabularies. But their presence signals something. Uncertainty. Transition. Maybe even a philosophical shift.

So what do the Suns actually plan to do this offseason? Do they cut bait and reset, acknowledging the financial straitjacket they’ve strapped themselves into? Or do they double down, ride the stars, and try to patch the holes with veteran minimums and overlooked value?

Honestly — I’ve said this before — but I really don’t know what the Suns are going to do. This isn’t one of those summers where you can plug names into a depth chart and pretend you’re previewing the season. The starting point is blurry. The endgame? Hazy at best.

But we press on. If nothing else, it’s a worthwhile exercise to examine the talent pool. Today, we shift our focus to the small forward position.

It’s a spot the Suns have been playing undersized at for the better part of two seasons. In a perfect world, Kevin Durant holds it down. But this team hasn’t lived in a perfect world for some time. They’ve pushed Devin Booker into the three spot to accommodate the Beal experiment, stretching his defensive responsibilities and muddying positional logic. And while Book can do just about anything on a basketball court, playing small forward in the NBA isn’t one of his strong suits. Unless it’s FIBA.

So we look at the list of available small forwards. And as with the other positions we’ve reviewed, it’s not a glamorous list. It’s not brimming with stars. But this isn’t about splash anymore. It’s about identity, right? Alignment. Culture. Corporate buzzwords.

The goal is to find players who fit whatever mold this franchise is trying to forge, whatever it is they’re building behind the curtain. That requires imagination. That requires clarity. And above all, that requires flexibility.

So…who’s out there? Let’s take a look.

Lindy Waters III might be the most intriguing name on this list.

The former member of the Oklahoma City Thunder was traded to the Warriors a summer ago, and ended last season playing for the Detorit Pistons, as he ended up there as a part of the five-team Jimmy Butler deal.

And Suns fans know who he is.

He’s torched Phoenix before. Back on March 8, 2023, he dropped 23 points, his second-highest scoring game ever and his top performance that season. He’s a known headache.

Sure, he’s a little older. But you’re not bringing him in to be your starting small forward. You’re looking for a depth piece. And frankly, that’s what this entire small forward free agent class is: depth plays. There isn’t a clear-cut starter in the bunch.

Is there anyone else who jumps out at you?

Would it be hilarious — or poetic — if the Suns brought Torrey Craig back for a third stint? Third time’s the charm, right?

Let us know in the comments below.

---

Listen to the latest podcast episode of the Suns JAM Session Podcast below. Stay up to date on every episode, subscribe to the pod on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, YouTube Podcasts, Amazon Music, Podbean, Castbox.

Please subscribe, rate, and review.

Source: https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/...oenix-suns-options-kevin-durant-depth-targets

 

[Phoenix Suns]

This Kevin Durant trade does not solve any issue for the Suns

Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images

If this is the first move Brian Gregory makes as GM, prepare for the uproar regardless if it is positive or negative.

The Phoenix Suns have been the center of recent discussions across the NBA. After a season of failure, change is expected in the Valley. One name that has been the subject of rumors is Kevin Durant. The superstar wing has one year left on his deal, and trading him may be the only way out of the dire situation that Phoenix has put itself in. Unfortunately for Durant and the fans, that will lead to parting ways, and the Suns will reshape their roster.

Every week, a new team is linked to Durant. However, with the latest rumor pinning Durant to a specific team, the Suns should avoid this at all costs.

In this reported deal, the Suns would receive Paul George and the No. 3 overall pick in the upcoming draft for Kevin Durant.

The Sixers could target Kevin Durant or Lauri Markkanen with a package that includes Paul George and the No. 3 pick, per @JeremyWoo & @DraftExpress

“Some teams expect the Sixers to be active in trade conversations, with names such as Kevin Durant(Phoenix) and Lauri Markkanen… pic.twitter.com/JpQ5s7bSVx

— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) May 19, 2025​

Why The Suns Should Avoid This​

Contract Wise​

This would not help out the Suns for multiple reasons.

For one, trading Durant, who is on a one-year deal, for a three-year $50 million contract is a no-go. Not to mention the fact that George also has a player option at the end of his deal (that he will accept), this would leave the Suns with arguably the two worst contracts in the league, in Bradley Beal and Paul George, both of whom have player options at the end of their deals. Now, Beal’s NTC exacerbates the Suns’ situation, as George could be moved eventually, but most likely not without draft capital, which the Suns desperately lack.

You could argue that Beal will not be here next season, as we have heard from multiple reports. With that being said, the latest update from Sam Amick of The Athletic once again reiterates the same information from the previous season. Beal and his family love the city of Phoenix, and he does not want to leave.

So, if Beal does not want to leave and no team is willing to help the Suns via a trade, then a buyout will likely be the way. Once again, though, who is to say he gets money on that buyout market? A deal he is willing to sign? The Suns may be forced to stomach the contract for another season to make it easier to waive.

Even if Beal is off the roster, the Suns would still be in the same position. They would still be stuck with having two $50 million contracts, and one on the books for another two seasons after this one. How could you escape that sort of cap mess if it is already a problem now, especially if you are paying Beal’s contract on the books for the next couple of seasons?

Not to mention that Booker and George do not have the best relationship due to their battles in the playoffs. I am sure they can put that behind them if needed to succeed on the court, but as a front office, do you even do that to your franchise guy?

Brian Gregory never gave us a clear indication of Bradley Beal’s future in Phoenix at his introductory press conference. That leaves every possibility, including the one of his staying in the air. Now that would royally pain Phoenix, even without mentioning the silver lining in this deal. Having two of the worst contracts in the association, around Booker, your franchise player, is not the way to do so.

No Immediate Success​

Now let‘s dive into the good part of all this, the third overall pick. This is the reason why some fans are interested in this move. The possibility of selecting someone who could change the landscape of this team would be a significant help. Hence, the keyword is “possibility.” By making this move, it does not mean that whoever the Suns select is going to be the next NBA superstar; it is all a chance.

Now with it being the third pick, the chances of that happening are less likely, but you never know with the draft. When analyzing who could be selected, it is clear that good talent is available. Yes, players like Ace Bailey or V.J. Edgecomb could make an impact, but how long down the road? If Phoenix’s primary goal is to win and build around Booker, drafting the third overall pick is not going to translate to immediate success in the win column.

Final Thoughts​

If this were trading Beal for George, I would still question it, as it is an extra year of paying a $50 million contract, even if it’s a better positional fit. Now, obviously, that trade would not include the third overall pick.

By trading Durant for a lottery pick, the Suns are further reset than they would like. If the Suns want to still retool around Booker, looking for a package with young players is a better approach. Finding players who can come to Phoenix to showcase their abilities to the front office and fans is what is needed to eventually determine who will stay with Booker on this quest back to the top and who will be redirected to acquire the necessary talent to do so.

---

Listen to the latest podcast episode of the Suns JAM Session Podcast below. Stay up to date on every episode, subscribe to the pod on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, YouTube Podcasts, Amazon Music, Podbean, Castbox.

Please subscribe, rate, and review.

Source: https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/...rumor-paul-george-nba-draft-no-3-pick-warning

 

[Phoenix Suns]

Free agency at the four is all floor, no ceiling

Photo by G Fiume/Getty Images

If the Suns trade Durant, here’s what comes next.

The power forward position looms as one of the more intriguing questions facing the Phoenix Suns this offseason. Chief among the uncertainties? The Kevin Durant decision. It casts a long shadow.

Durant will draw interest, and rightfully so. He’s one of the greatest scorers this game has ever seen. The way he gets buckets is almost poetic, his shot-making bordering on surreal. He makes the impossible look routine. And if he’s no longer wearing a Suns jersey next season, we’ll feel that loss. Deeply.

Because if the playoffs remind us of anything, it’s this: shot-making still reigns. The teams who survive are the ones who can score when it matters most. And Kevin Durant? He’s Hall of Fame caliber when it comes to delivering under duress.

Should the Suns choose to pivot — to move on from Durant — it will create a gaping hole at the four. One that won’t be filled by a player of his pedigree. That’s not how trades work. You don’t replace Kevin Durant. You adapt in his absence.

So what’s the plan? Do you try to patch it together in free agency? Do you hope that whoever comes back in a trade can bridge the gap?

So far, we’ve looked at point guards, shooting guards, and small forwards.

Today, we shift to the next position on our list of unrestricted free agents: power forward.

You look at this list of available power forwards and the first thing that jumps out? It’s filled with veterans. The average age of the unrestricted free agents at the position is 29.3 years. Translation: you’re not building for the future here. You’re not discovering untapped potential or betting on upside. You’re looking for stability. For someone with a higher floor than most.

For me? That’s Chris Boucher.

Much like Alec Burks, who we mentioned when talking shooting guards, Boucher is someone I’ve quietly monitored for years. Now 32, he’s never been a prolific scorer or elite shooter. But he plays with an edge. He brings energy. He does the little things — the intangible things — that this Suns team lacked last season.

In an ideal scenario, you’re bringing Boucher in as an ancillary piece. A role player. But if Phoenix trades Kevin Durant, suddenly the spotlight on Boucher gets a little brighter. Is that a good thing? A bad thing? Depends on your appetite for chaos.

Photo by Kevin Sousa/Getty Images

Then there’s Larry Nance Jr.

Another name I’ve always liked, though time is catching up to him. The days of Nance flustering Phoenix with his size and switchability back in the 2022 postseason feel like a fading memory. His production has dipped. His health has been spotty; he played just 24 games last season due to knee and ankle issues. In fact, the most games he’s ever logged in a single season? 67, way back in 2018-19.

Still, if you’re talking about bench depth and adding functional size to a historically undersized franchise, Nance checks boxes.

He’s not a savior. But he’s solid. He gives you optionality. The Suns have never truly boasted a dominant frontcourt, outside of brief stints from guys like Charles Barkley, Antonio McDyess, and Rodney Rogers. Adding a healthy Nance, in a reserve role, could help Phoenix toggle defensive looks and adapt mid-game, something they struggled with mightily this past season.

But again, all of this depends on what kind of offseason this becomes.

Do the Suns double down around Booker and Durant? Do they pivot and rebuild? Do they retool around Booker alone?

The possibilities are wide open. The free agency class? Not so much.

---

Listen to the latest podcast episode of the Suns JAM Session Podcast below. Stay up to date on every episode, subscribe to the pod on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, YouTube Podcasts, Amazon Music, Podbean, Castbox.

Please subscribe, rate, and review.

Source: https://www.brightsideofthesun.com/...n-durant-trade-options-boucher-nance-analysis