Will the Suns Miss the Playoffs?
As the NBA regular season heads into its final stretch, it’s becoming increasingly obvious that the Phoenix Suns won’t be serious contenders in the postseason. With a 27-30 record and a recent blowout loss to the struggling Toronto Raptors, there’s even a chance they won’t make the playoffs at all.
There are plenty of reasons for the Suns’ struggles—coaching decisions, Bradley Beal’s contract, and roster construction—but a lack of top-tier talent isn’t one of them. Any team featuring Devin Booker and Kevin Durant, even at 36, should at least be playing above .500.
The Suns Missed an Opportunity to Strengthen Their Rotation
One of the biggest issues this season has been the point guard position. What started as a strength early on has now become a major weakness. Tyus Jones, despite being a solid offseason addition, has become a liability the Suns can’t afford to ignore.
Defensively, he’s often targeted, and while he can hit open threes, the Suns’ overall struggles make it difficult to justify his minutes. Given their roster makeup, they simply can’t afford his defensive shortcomings, especially when Booker and Beal are better primary ball handlers.
Markelle Fultz Could Have Been the Answer
That’s why the Suns should have made a push for Markelle Fultz, who was recently signed by the Sacramento Kings. To be clear, Fultz wouldn’t have solved all their problems. His lack of a consistent outside shot would have presented new challenges.
The Orlando Magic moved on from Fultz because they no longer had room for him in their rotation. However, considering the Suns’ current options at point guard—Jones, Monte Morris, and Collin Gillespie—he was certainly worth a look.
Fultz could have been signed for a minimum deal and would have immediately provided a defensive upgrade over Jones. While he doesn’t take care of the ball as well, Jones hasn’t exactly solved that issue for the Suns either. More importantly, Fultz has the size and ability to attack the rim, something the Suns desperately need.
A Missed Opportunity for the Suns
Fultz would have needed the ball in his hands to be effective, but he still could have shared minutes with Booker and Durant. His first game with the Kings showed promise—scoring eight points in 10 minutes—despite three turnovers and no attempts from deep or the free-throw line.
At just 26, he still has plenty of upside. Given that the Suns’ season is already spiraling, taking a chance on him until the end of the year wouldn’t have hurt. If the team is willing to give Bol Bol more minutes, why not take a chance on another former Magic player who can actually defend?
The Suns’ decision not to pursue Fultz might be another misstep in a season full of them.
