As the NBA’s trade deadline passed, it became clear that the Phoenix Suns didn’t make major improvements, despite expectations. After trading their 2031 first-round pick for three future picks and acquiring Charlotte Hornets center Nick Richards, many anticipated the Suns would make a bold move ahead of the February 6 deadline.
However, nothing came to fruition, leaving the Suns entering the second half of the season with their unchanged star trio of Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal — a combination that has yet to bring success in the 2024-25 season.
Bleacher Report highlighted the Suns’ missed opportunity at the deadline:
“Would Jimmy Butler make a new Big 3 alongside Kevin Durant and Devin Booker? Would the team use their three newly acquired first-round picks to land an upgrade at center? Would Durant himself be traded for a monster haul from the Golden State Warriors or Miami Heat?” asked Greg Swartz.
“In the end, the Suns acquired a few role players from the lowly Charlotte Hornets, having to sacrifice one of their precious few remaining first-round picks to do so. For a team that’s 25-25 and clinging to the last play-in spot in the West, this was a failure of a deadline.”
“… The Suns have become a three-ring circus, with every acrobat, clown and tightrope-walker looking over his shoulder to see if he’s next on the trade block. With teams such as the Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Lakers, San Antonio Spurs, and others all getting better at the deadline, Phoenix remains stuck in mediocrity.”
It certainly feels that way, though Phoenix was limited by Beal’s no-trade clause. However, their openness to trade Durant unfortunately leaves the door open for a potential departure in the summer.
The overall atmosphere in Phoenix is tense, and it certainly appears the Suns wasted their opportunity at the trade deadline.
