Phoenix Suns’ Backup Plan If Jimmy Butler Trade Falls Through
The Phoenix Suns could seamlessly shift their focus to acquiring a different set of players if negotiations for Jimmy Butler fall apart.
The Suns are expected to be active ahead of the NBA trade deadline, seeking key acquisitions to improve their struggling 23-21 record. With Bradley Beal and Jusuf Nurkic underperforming, the team is likely to move Nurkic, who has already been sidelined for weeks.
The Chicago Bulls, on the other hand, could look to rebuild by trading valuable players in exchange for future assets. With Zach LaVine and Nikola Vucevic struggling to generate significant interest, the Suns could target both to strengthen their roster.
Proposed Trade Details
Phoenix Suns Receive: Zach LaVine ($43.0M), Nikola Vucevic ($20.0M), Torrey Craig ($2.8M)
Chicago Bulls Receive: Bradley Beal ($50.2M), Jusuf Nurkic ($18.1M), Oso Ighodaro ($1.1M), 2025 First-Round Pick (UTA/CLE/MIN), 2027 First-Round Pick (UTA/CLE/MIN), 2029 First-Round Pick (UTA/CLE/MIN)
The Bulls, struggling to secure even one first-round pick for LaVine or Vucevic, would receive three in this deal. They’d also gain a young prospect in Oso Ighodaro while reshuffling their roster.
Why It Works for the Suns
The Suns are aiming to secure a game-changing player who can have an immediate impact. While Jimmy Butler may have been a better fit, LaVine and Vucevic offer strong alternatives.
Zach LaVine: Averaging 24.0 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 4.5 assists, he’s a versatile scorer and solid passer who complements Devin Booker and Kevin Durant.
Nikola Vucevic: Adding 20.1 points and 10.3 rebounds per game while shooting 40.6% from three, he addresses the team’s rebounding and floor-spacing needs.
Torrey Craig: Though averaging modest numbers (6.9 points, 2.8 rebounds), Craig could thrive in Phoenix, where he previously played for three seasons.
Why It Works for the Bulls
The Bulls need to rebuild, and this trade allows them to do so while acquiring valuable future assets.
Bradley Beal: Averaging 17.2 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 3.3 assists, Beal could mentor younger players or be traded later.
Jusuf Nurkic: Averaging 8.6 points and 9.2 rebounds, Nurkic could regain trade value as an expiring contract next season.
Oso Ighodaro: A young center with potential, he could either develop into a long-term piece or be used as trade bait.
Final Takeaway
This trade benefits both teams. The Suns enhance their roster with players who fit their immediate needs, while the Bulls gain the future assets necessary for a rebuild. Though it doesn’t match the potential fit of a Jimmy Butler trade, this deal allows Phoenix to maximize its chances of contention this season.
