The Suns are actively working to make another deal before the February 6 deadline, following their acquisition of Charlotte Hornets center Nick Richards and three first-round picks. With this move, all eyes are on Phoenix as they might make another significant trade.
While the Suns have shown a strong interest in acquiring Jimmy Butler, there are other players whose future with Phoenix could be in question. Bleacher Reportโs Dan Favale highlighted Bradley Beal, Jusuf Nurkic, and Grayson Allen as the top three trade candidates for the Suns:
“The sheer volume of Beal rumors gives him a No. 1 case even with the no-trade clause. But his veto power, specific relocation preferences, and the seemingly Jimmy Butler-or-bust of it all demand that we hedge,” Favale explained.
“Nurkiฤ’s first-overall case is stronger than ever. He has vanished from the rotation and is reportedly not on good or even speaking terms with head coach Mike Budenholzer. The Phoenix Suns also just broke up their 2031 first-rounder into three less-favorable picks in 2025 (likely No. 29 or 30), 2027, and 2029, making it more likely they use one or two to facilitate a contract dump that doesn’t net a big-time upgrade.”
“The third and final slot is more subjective than the first two. I’m inclined to go with Allen. He remains an integral part of the rotationโand is shooting lights-out since Jan. 1. But unlike Beal or Nurkic, he may have enough standalone value to get the Suns a wing or big-man upgrade without exhausting their refreshed first-round stash.”
Beal remains the top candidate to be traded, though his no-trade clause complicates matters, especially with the Suns pursuing Butler. Nurkic, who has been phased out of the rotation, is also on the trading block, especially with Richards now taking over as the starting center. Allen, though valuable due to his three-point shooting, might have enough trade value to allow Phoenix to upgrade other positions.
