Phoenix Revamp: Competitive Reset Without a Full Tear-Down (PHI/MIN/POR)
Posted: Mon May 19, 2025 2:55 am
Let’s be real—it’s going to be very tough for Phoenix to rebuild in the traditional sense. They’ll likely need their picks back from Houston, and even that’s a challenge. The Rockets reportedly don’t want to part with Jalen Green and multiple assets even for someone like Booker. So... what can Phoenix actually do?
The following idea isn’t a full teardown, but a revamp—injecting youth into the roster while still remaining competitive enough to push for the playoffs.
1. PHI: Devin Booker, Nick Richards → FOR Paul George, Jared McCain, No. 3 Pick
Why for the Sixers:
Daryl Morey has reportedly explored packaging the No. 3 pick and wants to move off Paul George if it helps land a legit star. Enter Devin Booker—who forms a new Big 3 with Embiid and Maxey. Even if Embiid misses time, Booker and Maxey can carry the offense. Nick Richards fills a gap at backup center or temporary starter.
2. MIN: Jaden McDaniels, Naz Reid (S&T – 4 yrs/$100M), Rob Dillingham → FOR Kevin Durant
Why for the Wolves:
If Minnesota falls short against OKC in the WCF, don’t be surprised if they go star-hunting again. The team was already linked to KD, and adding him could push them over the top. This is a win-now swing for a team already deep in.
3. POR: Duop Reath → FOR Ryan Dunn
Why for the Blazers:
Portland is overloaded with centers and could use a young wing like Dunn. A simple rebalancing move for a rebuilding roster.
Why this works for Phoenix:
The Suns completely overhaul their roster—getting younger, deeper, and more flexible. They avoid a total tank but reset around youth with upside, while still fielding a competitive group that can aim for the playoffs.
Reworked Suns Depth Chart:
PG: Jared McCain / Rob Dillingham
SG: Bradley Beal / Grayson Allen / Cody Martin
SF: Jaden McDaniels / Ace Bailey
PF: Paul George / Royce O'Neale
C: Naz Reid / Duop Reath
The following idea isn’t a full teardown, but a revamp—injecting youth into the roster while still remaining competitive enough to push for the playoffs.
1. PHI: Devin Booker, Nick Richards → FOR Paul George, Jared McCain, No. 3 Pick
Why for the Sixers:
Daryl Morey has reportedly explored packaging the No. 3 pick and wants to move off Paul George if it helps land a legit star. Enter Devin Booker—who forms a new Big 3 with Embiid and Maxey. Even if Embiid misses time, Booker and Maxey can carry the offense. Nick Richards fills a gap at backup center or temporary starter.
2. MIN: Jaden McDaniels, Naz Reid (S&T – 4 yrs/$100M), Rob Dillingham → FOR Kevin Durant
Why for the Wolves:
If Minnesota falls short against OKC in the WCF, don’t be surprised if they go star-hunting again. The team was already linked to KD, and adding him could push them over the top. This is a win-now swing for a team already deep in.
3. POR: Duop Reath → FOR Ryan Dunn
Why for the Blazers:
Portland is overloaded with centers and could use a young wing like Dunn. A simple rebalancing move for a rebuilding roster.
Why this works for Phoenix:
The Suns completely overhaul their roster—getting younger, deeper, and more flexible. They avoid a total tank but reset around youth with upside, while still fielding a competitive group that can aim for the playoffs.
Reworked Suns Depth Chart:
PG: Jared McCain / Rob Dillingham
SG: Bradley Beal / Grayson Allen / Cody Martin
SF: Jaden McDaniels / Ace Bailey
PF: Paul George / Royce O'Neale
C: Naz Reid / Duop Reath