The Phoenix Suns need to reevaluate their strategy.
As the NBA’s trade deadline approaches on February 6, the Suns appear committed to their championship aspirations, despite significant underperformance from their star-studded roster. Many had expected the Suns to rebuild, but instead, they’ve made moves like acquiring Charlotte Hornets center Nick Richards and securing multiple first-round picks, signaling their intent to keep pushing forward with the current lineup.
But is this the right choice?
Doug Haller of The Athletic argues it’s not.
“In the mortgage business, Mat Ishbia believes in identifying problems quickly and fixing them quickly. This approach with the Suns should lead him to one conclusion — sell,” Haller wrote, responding to what the Suns should do before the trade deadline.
“Phoenix has gotten progressively worse over the past three seasons. They have changed coaches. They have overhauled the bench (and added Bradley Beal). They have changed lineups (and demoted Bradley Beal). Nothing has worked. This season, the Suns have lacked the togetherness to beat a good team and the fire to put away a bad one. On many nights, they just look old.
“Acquiring Jimmy Butler — if a deal can be constructed — would help, but it won’t make Phoenix a championship contender.”
Haller’s perspective aligns with that of The Athletic’s John Hollinger, who also suggested the Suns should dismantle their current star-focused roster. While a trade for Jimmy Butler might provide some spark, it’s doubtful that his addition alone would transform Phoenix into the championship contender many expected.
With significant decisions ahead, both Ishbia and general manager James Jones face a challenging road ahead.
