2020 Offseason Speculation, free agency, summer trades (keep draft prospect talk in draft thread)

[Ghost of Kleine]

Dario Saric is average or a bit above average at pretty much everything: shooting, passing, rebounding, defense (below-the-rim defense), size. But Kelly and Mikal are both better imo and Cam is also sweet. Additionally Kelly, Mikal, and Cam are all really easy guys to love and Dario has a resting bitch face and terrible posture.

I for my part, Actually love Darios' constant effort and willingness to play whatever role he's asked for the most part. But with him, I see a quality backup 4/5 that has value capped at maybe the 6-8 million range tops. The problem for me is in his severe lack of athleticism and vertical burst, along with his slow and somewhat plodding mobility. Again, I love that he puts in solid effort defensively, But the reality is that even for a 6'10+ guy who's only 225lbs, It seems that he likely couldn't jump over a phonebook, And he really can't stop any penetration or scoring at the rim from anyone.

This is further complicated by his inconsistencies on the offensive end of the floor, Wherein he hasn't shown the ability to consistently hit the three at a reliable rate, Or even consistently make his layups and shots around the rim. Ultimately he's a mixed bag, and moreover an "unknown" as in its unknown exactly what level of production he'll offer on a given night. Now, With that being said, I would retain him as a quality backup 4/5 for around 6-8 million this summer. But that's only if there are no better options available in that price range. And nothing above that amount really. So rather than possibly overpaying him, Or letting him walk for nothing, I'd look to trade him( resign and trade) And maybe Diallo/ Okobo? * (If he'd agree to it) To either Dallas for Delon Wright and the 31st pick.

31- Draft Paul Reed or Xavier Tillman, Or Killian Tillie **( Better version of Saric).

Or to Utah ( in a Memhet Okur) type of role for them for maybe Mye Oni Or Emmanuel Mudiay AND the 24th pick.

24- Draft Either Jalen Smith or Patrick Williams, Or maybe Reggie Perry?

Or back to Philly for Mike Scott/ Glenn Robinson 3rd/ 22nd pick.
22- Draft Kira Lewis *( IF he falls) otherwise draft Tre Jones or Grant Riller.
But IF Philly won't give up the 22, Then trade becomes Saric / Diallo/ Okobo for Mike Scott/ Furkan Korkmaz/ Matisse Thybulle/ 34th pick.
34- Draft Killian Tillie or Reggie Perry.

[bwgood77]

Dario Saric is average or a bit above average at pretty much everything: shooting, passing, rebounding, defense (below-the-rim defense), size. But Kelly and Mikal are both better imo and Cam is also sweet. Additionally Kelly, Mikal, and Cam are all really easy guys to love and Dario has a resting bitch face and terrible posture.

It's funny, I remember at the beginning of the year there was talk that Dario was a "slow-starter" when it came to shooting and we could expect him to warm up from deep throughout the year. Never happened. He had the worst-shooting year of his career last season. Never got his passing game on track because he could never get his offense going. Few things less useful than a stretch 4 who can't shoot.

On the other side of the spectrum, I was surprised by his defense. He was solid. Hell, he was damn good guarding traditional wide-load bigs like Valanciunas - certainly better than Ayton was against Val, at least.

He's not good enough to be a starter in this league unless he gets that 3FG% closer to 40%. But as a bench 4/5, he's solid. The question I have is whether he's amenable to that kind of role, and if he isn't, whether he'll look to Europe, because I can't imagine him being offered a starting gig after the way he played this season. Then again... I imagine Euroleague salaries will be depressed due to coronavirus just like here, so... IDK. Dario's future seems like a big question mark from the outside.

As a starter, I wouldn't pay him a dime. But if he's okay with a bench role, I think he's worth a contract in the $6-8 million range (in the pre-corona world, at least). FWIW, that's more than I'd be willing to pay Baynes, based on last season's performance. My guess is that is not a popular opinion around here.

Baynes elevates the team a lot more, though who knows if he'd want to stay. I see what Gallinari and Millsap want, and if not, look at lesser options or just role it back, but wouldn't give Dario much in FA. Would much much rather give Baynes but 1 year contract than Dario a 4 year contract.

[Ghost of Kleine]

Interesting question guys:

IF We somehow landed a top 3 pick, And Melo Ball was there for us to take, Would you:

1- Just draft Ball or Toppin ( instead) at that point, And call it a night.

OR

2- *** ( Knowing how badly the Knicks covet Ball) would you ................. Trade the pick ( Ball) to New York for a pick swap ( 6)aproximately?? the 27th pick, AND the Dallas unprotected 2021 first round pick? Then at 6, You can still either possibly take Toppin or Hayes or Haliburton.

Then at 27, You could package the 27th pick along with Saric/ Diallo/ Okobo:

-To Dallas for Seth Curry/ 31st pick.
-To Denver for Monte Morris/ 21st pick.
- To Philly for Furkan Korkmaz and the 22nd pick.
- To Utah for Miye Oni/ Mudiay and the 24th pick.

[Crives]

Interesting question guys:

IF We somehow landed a top 3 pick, And Melo Ball was there for us to take, Would you:

1- Just draft Ball or Toppin ( instead) at that point, And call it a night.

OR

2- *** ( Knowing how badly the Knicks covet Ball) would you ................. Trade the pick ( Ball) to New York for a pick swap ( 6)aproximately?? the 27th pick, AND the Dallas unprotected 2021 first round pick? Then at 6, You can still either possibly take Toppin or Hayes or Haliburton.

Then at 27, You could package the 27th pick along with Saric/ Diallo/ Okobo:

-To Dallas for Seth Curry/ 31st pick.
-To Denver for Monte Morris/ 21st pick.
- To Philly for Furkan Korkmaz and the 22nd pick.
- To Utah for Miye Oni/ Mudiay and the 24th pick.

I would definitely try to trade down or out if the value is there.

Top 2 pick for Detroit #5/6 + Kennard would sound really interesting.

[Ghost of Kleine]

Interesting question guys:

IF We somehow landed a top 3 pick, And Melo Ball was there for us to take, Would you:

1- Just draft Ball or Toppin ( instead) at that point, And call it a night.

OR

2- *** ( Knowing how badly the Knicks covet Ball) would you ................. Trade the pick ( Ball) to New York for a pick swap ( 6)aproximately?? the 27th pick, AND the Dallas unprotected 2021 first round pick? Then at 6, You can still either possibly take Toppin or Hayes or Haliburton.

Then at 27, You could package the 27th pick along with Saric/ Diallo/ Okobo:

-To Dallas for Seth Curry/ 31st pick.
-To Denver for Monte Morris/ 21st pick.
- To Philly for Furkan Korkmaz and the 22nd pick.
- To Utah for Miye Oni/ Mudiay and the 24th pick.

I would definitely try to trade down or out if the value is there.

Top 2 pick for Detroit #5/6 + Kennard would sound really interesting.

I would definitely be intrigued by Kennard IF AND ONLY IF I would have the assurance of the doctors and specialists that his durability would no longer be a concern with his chronic tendonitis in both of his knees. Especially with him expecting a big pay increase from his rookie scale contract soon too. But IF the experts would clear him medically, Then yes, I'd absolutely do it. Then at 5 or 6, I'd draft Toppin with No hesitation. After that, I'd absolutely still look to (* resign and trade some combination of Saric/ Diallo/ okobo to either Dallas for Delon Wright and the 31st pick.
31- Draft Tyler Bey **( IF there's any way he falls). Otherwise Elijah Hughes or Jaden McDaniels.

Or the same package of Saric/ Diallo/ Okobo to Philly for Thybulle and the 22, Or to Utah for Miye Oni/ 24.

At either 22 or 24, I'm still targeting Tyler Bey or Jaden McDaniels ( **Jonathan Isaac defensive potential).

[sunskerr]

Interesting question guys:

IF We somehow landed a top 3 pick, And Melo Ball was there for us to take, Would you:

1- Just draft Ball or Toppin ( instead) at that point, And call it a night.

OR

2- *** ( Knowing how badly the Knicks covet Ball) would you ................. Trade the pick ( Ball) to New York for a pick swap ( 6)aproximately?? the 27th pick, AND the Dallas unprotected 2021 first round pick? Then at 6, You can still either possibly take Toppin or Hayes or Haliburton.

Then at 27, You could package the 27th pick along with Saric/ Diallo/ Okobo:

-To Dallas for Seth Curry/ 31st pick.
-To Denver for Monte Morris/ 21st pick.
- To Philly for Furkan Korkmaz and the 22nd pick.
- To Utah for Miye Oni/ Mudiay and the 24th pick.

Monte Morris to me would be a no brainer. I think he's deserving of a chance to start on some teams in the league like Malik Beasley. Rubio still has a few years left on his contract though so idk if we'd get full value out of the remainder of Morris's deal before he becomes a restricted free agent, but for us he could get 30 minutes off the bench and plenty of playmaking duties. We would get the power to match any offer, too.

[Ghost of Kleine]

https://arizonasports.com/story/2300948/suns-will-be-among-hardest-hit-by-nba-salary-cap-drop-hollinger-says/amp/?__twitter_impression=true

The Suns are definitely going to have to make some hard decisions it seems in regards to free agency and roster alterations/ improvements

Hollinger lists Phoenix as one of four teams that will be significantly impacted by the loss of cap space if the salary cap moves from the projected $115 million line and holds at the 2019-20 season’s $109.1 million.

Phoenix might be impacted as much as any other team in the league by a drop in the salary cap. The Suns projected to have $24 million in a cap room if they declined options on Frank Kaminsky and Cheick Diallo, renounced Dario Saric and Aron Baynes, and waived the non-guaranteed Elie Okobo. Now they project to only have $19 million; getting any more room would likely require cutting into bone.

At $24 million, the Suns were in pretty good shape to land a starting-caliber 4 like Gallinari or Millsap in free agency. Even if the Suns weren’t the first choice of these players, their cash would talk. At $19 million? I’m not so sure. Now it seems like the Suns would be better off targeting guard help with their mid-level exception, re-signing Saric and Baynes, and hanging onto Diallo and Kaminsky – all of which they could do without threatening the luxury tax.

That’s a realistic outlook for the Suns, who go from being able to offer a contract that has a whiff of max money value to only offering solid starter-quality money.

Such a scenario will test a front office led by general manager James Jones.

Does he stick to his patient, team-building approach for yet another year by running back a team that, although hit by injuries, is 26-39 with 17 games left in the halted season? With a predicted $6 million less in cap space for 2020-21, Jones’ efforts for improvement from this current season could be seen in the trade market.

Maybe the general manager would be more willing to listen to trade offers involving, say, Kelly Oubre Jr., a fan favorite who would make $14.4 million in 2020-21 but might be seeking a big payday as a free agent in 2021.

In any case, the likelihood the Suns consider bringing back key rotation players like Saric, Baynes and Kaminsky might be more likely scenarios than they might’ve been just a few months ago.

So again, Kelly is great, And has definitely had a positive impact on our culture. But IF we believe that he will as mentioned likely command a payday increase outside of our range, Then we should absolutely explore trade options and seek to get a maximum value return for him whilst he's still under contract and his value is peaking!

[starbosa10]

https://arizonasports.com/story/2300948/suns-will-be-among-hardest-hit-by-nba-salary-cap-drop-hollinger-says/amp/?__twitter_impression=true

The Suns are definitely going to have to make some hard decisions it seems in regards to free agency and roster alterations/ improvements

Hollinger lists Phoenix as one of four teams that will be significantly impacted by the loss of cap space if the salary cap moves from the projected $115 million line and holds at the 2019-20 season’s $109.1 million.

Phoenix might be impacted as much as any other team in the league by a drop in the salary cap. The Suns projected to have $24 million in a cap room if they declined options on Frank Kaminsky and Cheick Diallo, renounced Dario Saric and Aron Baynes, and waived the non-guaranteed Elie Okobo. Now they project to only have $19 million; getting any more room would likely require cutting into bone.

At $24 million, the Suns were in pretty good shape to land a starting-caliber 4 like Gallinari or Millsap in free agency. Even if the Suns weren’t the first choice of these players, their cash would talk. At $19 million? I’m not so sure. Now it seems like the Suns would be better off targeting guard help with their mid-level exception, re-signing Saric and Baynes, and hanging onto Diallo and Kaminsky – all of which they could do without threatening the luxury tax.

That’s a realistic outlook for the Suns, who go from being able to offer a contract that has a whiff of max money value to only offering solid starter-quality money.

Such a scenario will test a front office led by general manager James Jones.

Does he stick to his patient, team-building approach for yet another year by running back a team that, although hit by injuries, is 26-39 with 17 games left in the halted season? With a predicted $6 million less in cap space for 2020-21, Jones’ efforts for improvement from this current season could be seen in the trade market.

Maybe the general manager would be more willing to listen to trade offers involving, say, Kelly Oubre Jr., a fan favorite who would make $14.4 million in 2020-21 but might be seeking a big payday as a free agent in 2021.

In any case, the likelihood the Suns consider bringing back key rotation players like Saric, Baynes and Kaminsky might be more likely scenarios than they might’ve been just a few months ago.

So again, Kelly is great, And has definitely had a positive impact on our culture. But IF we believe that he will as mentioned likely command a payday increase outside of our range, Then we should absolutely explore trade options and seek to get a maximum value return for him whilst he's still under contract and his value is peaking!

I think it will be hard to get peak value though. the most popular deal seems to be Oubre for AG but I dont think AG really fits the team all that well.

[Ghost of Kleine]

https://arizonasports.com/story/2300948/suns-will-be-among-hardest-hit-by-nba-salary-cap-drop-hollinger-says/amp/?__twitter_impression=true

The Suns are definitely going to have to make some hard decisions it seems in regards to free agency and roster alterations/ improvements

Hollinger lists Phoenix as one of four teams that will be significantly impacted by the loss of cap space if the salary cap moves from the projected $115 million line and holds at the 2019-20 season’s $109.1 million.

Phoenix might be impacted as much as any other team in the league by a drop in the salary cap. The Suns projected to have $24 million in a cap room if they declined options on Frank Kaminsky and Cheick Diallo, renounced Dario Saric and Aron Baynes, and waived the non-guaranteed Elie Okobo. Now they project to only have $19 million; getting any more room would likely require cutting into bone.

At $24 million, the Suns were in pretty good shape to land a starting-caliber 4 like Gallinari or Millsap in free agency. Even if the Suns weren’t the first choice of these players, their cash would talk. At $19 million? I’m not so sure. Now it seems like the Suns would be better off targeting guard help with their mid-level exception, re-signing Saric and Baynes, and hanging onto Diallo and Kaminsky – all of which they could do without threatening the luxury tax.

That’s a realistic outlook for the Suns, who go from being able to offer a contract that has a whiff of max money value to only offering solid starter-quality money.

Such a scenario will test a front office led by general manager James Jones.

Does he stick to his patient, team-building approach for yet another year by running back a team that, although hit by injuries, is 26-39 with 17 games left in the halted season? With a predicted $6 million less in cap space for 2020-21, Jones’ efforts for improvement from this current season could be seen in the trade market.

Maybe the general manager would be more willing to listen to trade offers involving, say, Kelly Oubre Jr., a fan favorite who would make $14.4 million in 2020-21 but might be seeking a big payday as a free agent in 2021.

In any case, the likelihood the Suns consider bringing back key rotation players like Saric, Baynes and Kaminsky might be more likely scenarios than they might’ve been just a few months ago.

So again, Kelly is great, And has definitely had a positive impact on our culture. But IF we believe that he will as mentioned likely command a payday increase outside of our range, Then we should absolutely explore trade options and seek to get a maximum value return for him whilst he's still under contract and his value is peaking!

I think it will be hard to get peak value though. the most popular deal seems to be Oubre for AG but I dont think AG really fits the team all that well.

You're not really wrong man on the value man. As other teams will become increasingly reluctant to give up equal to maximum value for a recently injured player without having a full season post injury to properly evaluate him before he becomes an unrestricted free agent in 2021, And unfortunately for us, The longer we hold him, The overall value ( contractually)that he'll return in a trade as a short term / rental decreases exponentially heading into 2021. Now to be fair, Trades that at this point and under the present circumstances that I'd wager are between maximum value to at least fair value would be:

Golden State-
Oubre/Diallo for the Golden State Warriors 17.2 million trade exception( Iggy) and their 2020 first Top 4 (pick swap)
(**Fair value).

Or Oubre/ Diallo for the Golden State Warriors 17.2 milliontrade exception ( Iggy) AND the Minnesota Timberwolves 2021 top 3 protected first ( ** Maximum value).

New York-
Oubre for Portis' 15 millionexpiring contract ( **Team option) declined/ the 27th pick/ And the Dallas unprotected 2021 first. *( Great value)

10- Draft one of Hayes/ Haliburton/ Anthony or Lewis.
27- Paul Reed or Reggie Perry.

Minnesota Timberwolves -
Oubre for James Johnson ( expires in 2021) 16th / 33rd picks ( fair value).

16- Draft Tyler Bey( Oubres' replacement) or Aaron Nesmith?
33- Paul Reed ( very impressive statistically and defensively versatile) or Elijah Hughes( 6'6, And almost identical to Oubre statistically and in terms of athleticism and energy/attitude).

Atlanta Hawks-
Oubre for Cam Reddish/ Kevin Huerter/ and a pick swap. So with this trade, we jump into the top 4. Now at 4, We draft Toppin.

***Next we ( resign for 8 million and trade ) Saric/ Diallo/ Okobo/ future conditional 2nd to Dallas for Seth Curry ( 8 million) and the 31st pick.
31- Grant Riller( Fred Van Vleet 2.0) or Malachi Flynn ( Elite skilled playmaking floor general). (Excellent value)!!!

Detroit-
Oubre for Luke Kennard *( IF he clears physical) and a pick swap ( fair value). Now at 5 we draft Toppin.
**Next we trade Saric( resigned for around 8 million)/ Diallo/ Okobo/ future conditional 2nd to Philly for Mike Scott/ Glenn Robinson 3rd and the 22nd pick.
22- Draft Kira Lewis (* IF he falls) or Tre Jones. *( Really Good value).


Chicago Bulls-
Oubre for Lauri Markkanen straight up trade **(equal value).
Or
Oubre for Wendell Carter Jr/ Kris Dunn*( resigned and traded) and a pick swap ( 10 for 7).
7- Draft Devin Vassell ( Oubres' replacement). (fair value).
**Then resign and trade Saric *( 8 million)/ Diallo/ Okobo to Dallas for Seth Curry and the 31st pick.
31- Draft Immanuel Quickly or Leandro Bolmero?

Charlotte Hornets-
Oubre for PJ Washington and the 8th pick. (** We keep our 10th pick) And then draft Jalen Smith or Paul Reed. *( good value).

Then we ...........
*** Trade the 8th pick to Boston for the Marcus Smart/ 17th pick and 30th pick. *( Great value).
*** Trade the 17th pick/ Saric (** resigned/ traded) Diallo/ to Dallas for Seth Curry. *( Great value).

30- Draft Tyler Bey **( IF he falls) or Elijah Hughes ( backup 3) or Jaden McDaniels ( Jonathan Isaac/ Rashard Lewis potential) to be Oubres' replacement.

Orlando-
Oubre/ Diallo / Okobo for Gordon/ James Ennis/ 45th pick.
45- Draft Cory Kispert (* Doug McDermott clone) or Elijah Hughes (* 6'6 Oubre clone) for added shooting depth around Gordon.

**************************
BLOCKBUSTER CLEVER 3 PART TRADE
1- Trade Oubre/ Diallo to Charlotte for the 8th pick/ PJ Washington. **( Fair value).

2- Trade 10th pick/ Saric ( resigned and traded * 8 million )/ Okobo to Orlando for Aaron Gordon/ James Ennis. *( good value).

3- **** Now trade the 8th pick/ Frank Kaminsky to Boston for Marcus Smart/ 26th/ 30th pick.

26- Draft Tyler Bey.
30- Draft Immanuel Quickly or Cory Kispert for ELITE added shooting depth.

So we can walk out of draft night only giving up Oubre/ Saric / Diallo( All players that we were likely to lose anyways) / and the 10th pick for:

Aaron Gordon ( athleticism/ defense).
-Marcus Smart ( playmaking/ defense ).
-James Ennis ( floor spacing / defense).
-PJ Washington ( high talent 3/4).
-Tyler Bey ( ELITE defensive playmaker/ rebounder).
-Immanuel Quickly ( ELITE perimeter shooter from three).

Opening night roster:

- Rubio/ Smart/ Jerome.
- Booker/ Quickly / James Ennis.
- Bridges/ Cam Johnson/ PJ Washington.
- Gordon/ Tyler Bey / Cam Johnson.
- Ayton/ Baynes/ free agent ( Noel or Len)?

We now have ELITE defense/ rebounding/ rim protection throughout the roster, Whilst still maintaining a high level of perimeter shooting from three as well.
Gordon being on a descending contract also allows us to maintain cap flexibility to extend both Bridges and Ayton too. And we can apply our available cap space to acquiring a playmaker in free agency or filling any other needs.

[King4Day]

What are peoples thoughts on the chance the Suns may be done this season (assuming they do go straight to the playoffs)?

For me, it is what it is, but it would kinda suck that we will have nothing to look forward to until the lottery. Since they are talking about the season possibly starting in late July, we may not get Suns news (draft position) until August or September.

[King4Day]

I know people are avoiding saying this years champ will have an asterisk, but I see no other way to look at it.
NBA teams play the season for their position and home court advantage. Not having those fans to help sway games is a mega loss.
If the Lakers win, we'll always wonder if the Bucks would have had just enough to win it with HCA.

And if they do that 1-16 seeding idea, then that's another reason to put an asterisk there. This isn't normal. The season didn't start with these things as the plan.
I never put an asterisk next to the 99 Spurs because all teams had a shortened year. Just fewer games played but everything else was the same.
That's not nearly the case this year.

How does everyone else feel about this? What's your argument 'for' or 'against' an asterisk next to the champs name?

[King4Day]

Spoiler:

https://arizonasports.com/story/2300948/suns-will-be-among-hardest-hit-by-nba-salary-cap-drop-hollinger-says/amp/?__twitter_impression=true

The Suns are definitely going to have to make some hard decisions it seems in regards to free agency and roster alterations/ improvements



So again, Kelly is great, And has definitely had a positive impact on our culture. But IF we believe that he will as mentioned likely command a payday increase outside of our range, Then we should absolutely explore trade options and seek to get a maximum value return for him whilst he's still under contract and his value is peaking!

I think it will be hard to get peak value though. the most popular deal seems to be Oubre for AG but I dont think AG really fits the team all that well.

You're not really wrong man on the value man. As other teams will become increasingly reluctant to give up equal to maximum value for a recently injured player without having a full season post injury to properly evaluate him before he becomes an unrestricted free agent in 2021, And unfortunately for us, The longer we hold him, The overall value ( contractually)that he'll return in a trade as a short term / rental decreases exponentially heading into 2021. Now to be fair, Trades that at this point and under the present circumstances that I'd wager are between maximum value to at least fair value would be:

Golden State-
Oubre/Diallo for the Golden State Warriors 17.2 million trade exception( Iggy) and their 2020 first Top 4 (pick swap)
(**Fair value).

Or Oubre/ Diallo for the Golden State Warriors 17.2 milliontrade exception ( Iggy) AND the Minnesota Timberwolves 2021 top 3 protected first ( ** Maximum value).

New York-
Oubre for Portis' 15 millionexpiring contract ( **Team option) declined/ the 27th pick/ And the Dallas unprotected 2021 first. *( Great value)

10- Draft one of Hayes/ Haliburton/ Anthony or Lewis.
27- Paul Reed or Reggie Perry.

Minnesota Timberwolves -
Oubre for James Johnson ( expires in 2021) 16th / 33rd picks ( fair value).

16- Draft Tyler Bey( Oubres' replacement) or Aaron Nesmith?
33- Paul Reed ( very impressive statistically and defensively versatile) or Elijah Hughes( 6'6, And almost identical to Oubre statistically and in terms of athleticism and energy/attitude).

Atlanta Hawks-
Oubre for Cam Reddish/ Kevin Huerter/ and a pick swap. So with this trade, we jump into the top 4. Now at 4, We draft Toppin.

***Next we ( resign for 8 million and trade ) Saric/ Diallo/ Okobo/ future conditional 2nd to Dallas for Seth Curry ( 8 million) and the 31st pick.
31- Grant Riller( Fred Van Vleet 2.0) or Malachi Flynn ( Elite skilled playmaking floor general). (Excellent value)!!!

Detroit-
Oubre for Luke Kennard *( IF he clears physical) and a pick swap ( fair value). Now at 5 we draft Toppin.
**Next we trade Saric( resigned for around 8 million)/ Diallo/ Okobo/ future conditional 2nd to Philly for Mike Scott/ Glenn Robinson 3rd and the 22nd pick.
22- Draft Kira Lewis (* IF he falls) or Tre Jones. *( Really Good value).


Chicago Bulls-
Oubre for Lauri Markkanen straight up trade **(equal value).
Or
Oubre for Wendell Carter Jr/ Kris Dunn*( resigned and traded) and a pick swap ( 10 for 7).
7- Draft Devin Vassell ( Oubres' replacement). (fair value).
**Then resign and trade Saric *( 8 million)/ Diallo/ Okobo to Dallas for Seth Curry and the 31st pick.
31- Draft Immanuel Quickly or Leandro Bolmero?

Charlotte Hornets-
Oubre for PJ Washington and the 8th pick. (** We keep our 10th pick) And then draft Jalen Smith or Paul Reed. *( good value).

Then we ...........
*** Trade the 8th pick to Boston for the Marcus Smart/ 17th pick and 30th pick. *( Great value).
*** Trade the 17th pick/ Saric (** resigned/ traded) Diallo/ to Dallas for Seth Curry. *( Great value).

30- Draft Tyler Bey **( IF he falls) or Elijah Hughes ( backup 3) or Jaden McDaniels ( Jonathan Isaac/ Rashard Lewis potential) to be Oubres' replacement.

Orlando-
Oubre/ Diallo / Okobo for Gordon/ James Ennis/ 45th pick.
45- Draft Cory Kispert (* Doug McDermott clone) or Elijah Hughes (* 6'6 Oubre clone) for added shooting depth around Gordon.

**************************
BLOCKBUSTER CLEVER 3 PART TRADE
1- Trade Oubre/ Diallo to Charlotte for the 8th pick/ PJ Washington. **( Fair value).

2- Trade 10th pick/ Saric ( resigned and traded * 8 million )/ Okobo to Orlando for Aaron Gordon/ James Ennis. *( good value).

3- **** Now trade the 8th pick/ Frank Kaminsky to Boston for Marcus Smart/ 26th/ 30th pick.

26- Draft Tyler Bey.
30- Draft Immanuel Quickly or Cory Kispert for ELITE added shooting depth.

So we can walk out of draft night only giving up Oubre/ Saric / Diallo( All players that we were likely to lose anyways) / and the 10th pick for:

Aaron Gordon ( athleticism/ defense).
-Marcus Smart ( playmaking/ defense ).
-James Ennis ( floor spacing / defense).
-PJ Washington ( high talent 3/4).
-Tyler Bey ( ELITE defensive playmaker/ rebounder).
-Immanuel Quickly ( ELITE perimeter shooter from three).

Opening night roster:

- Rubio/ Smart/ Jerome.
- Booker/ Quickly / James Ennis.
- Bridges/ Cam Johnson/ PJ Washington.
- Gordon/ Tyler Bey / Cam Johnson.
- Ayton/ Baynes/ free agent ( Noel or Len)?

We now have ELITE defense/ rebounding/ rim protection throughout the roster, Whilst still maintaining a high level of perimeter shooting from three as well.
Gordon being on a descending contract also allows us to maintain cap flexibility to extend both Bridges and Ayton too. And we can apply our available cap space to acquiring a playmaker in free agency or filling any other needs.

I'd love the Charlotte trade but they are so far from competing that it doesn't make sense for them. They have to be in win-now mode to consider trading last years pick and this years high pick for a guy who could walk.
I think we'd have to throw them more anyway. Oubre for a young talent on a rookie contract and this years #8 who will also be cost controlled doesn't seem as fair as one may think.

[bwgood77]

What are peoples thoughts on the chance the Suns may be done this season (assuming they do go straight to the playoffs)?

For me, it is what it is, but it would kinda suck that we will have nothing to look forward to until the lottery. Since they are talking about the season possibly starting in late July, we may not get Suns news (draft position) until August or September.

I'd rather see them play, but the extended rest could do many of them some good. Ayton could use the playing time though. The international competitions being canceled should leave Rubio more fresh for next season too. Baynes as well if he comes back.

[Fo-Real]

https://arizonasports.com/story/2300948/suns-will-be-among-hardest-hit-by-nba-salary-cap-drop-hollinger-says/amp/?__twitter_impression=true

The Suns are definitely going to have to make some hard decisions it seems in regards to free agency and roster alterations/ improvements

Hollinger lists Phoenix as one of four teams that will be significantly impacted by the loss of cap space if the salary cap moves from the projected $115 million line and holds at the 2019-20 season’s $109.1 million.

Phoenix might be impacted as much as any other team in the league by a drop in the salary cap. The Suns projected to have $24 million in a cap room if they declined options on Frank Kaminsky and Cheick Diallo, renounced Dario Saric and Aron Baynes, and waived the non-guaranteed Elie Okobo. Now they project to only have $19 million; getting any more room would likely require cutting into bone.

At $24 million, the Suns were in pretty good shape to land a starting-caliber 4 like Gallinari or Millsap in free agency. Even if the Suns weren’t the first choice of these players, their cash would talk. At $19 million? I’m not so sure. Now it seems like the Suns would be better off targeting guard help with their mid-level exception, re-signing Saric and Baynes, and hanging onto Diallo and Kaminsky – all of which they could do without threatening the luxury tax.

That’s a realistic outlook for the Suns, who go from being able to offer a contract that has a whiff of max money value to only offering solid starter-quality money.

Such a scenario will test a front office led by general manager James Jones.

Does he stick to his patient, team-building approach for yet another year by running back a team that, although hit by injuries, is 26-39 with 17 games left in the halted season? With a predicted $6 million less in cap space for 2020-21, Jones’ efforts for improvement from this current season could be seen in the trade market.

Maybe the general manager would be more willing to listen to trade offers involving, say, Kelly Oubre Jr., a fan favorite who would make $14.4 million in 2020-21 but might be seeking a big payday as a free agent in 2021.

In any case, the likelihood the Suns consider bringing back key rotation players like Saric, Baynes and Kaminsky might be more likely scenarios than they might’ve been just a few months ago.

So again, Kelly is great, And has definitely had a positive impact on our culture. But IF we believe that he will as mentioned likely command a payday increase outside of our range, Then we should absolutely explore trade options and seek to get a maximum value return for him whilst he's still under contract and his value is peaking!

I think it will be hard to get peak value though. the most popular deal seems to be Oubre for AG but I dont think AG really fits the team all that well.

BRO, I dont know where my brain was, I for some reason thought we were paying Kelly like near or at 20 mil this and next! I dont know why I thought that. It's actually 15 and then 14 and change ... and THATS GREAT for what he brings. So.... I was thinking his raise for a re-up after next would get in the mid to high 20's and that would be a problem cause that would be too much when actually we might be able to get away with a raise getting him to about 20 mil or slightly higher. I think he is worth that! Not more than 3 years tho.

[King4Day]

Tell me this isn't the most aggravating thing. Especially with how our season started. FOUR TEAMS FROM THE WEST on top of the normal playoff teams and we STILL can't sneak in. New low for how bad our franchise has been.

The NBA is considering a group stage with the resumption of the season as Adam Silver will have the opportunity to potentially test one of his more innovative changes during this unique period. This format would replace the traditional first round and determine the final eight remaining teams.

The 16 current playoff teams would quality for the group state along with the four teams with the next-best records, which include the Portland Trial Blazers, New Orleans Pelicans, Sacramento Kings and San Antonio Spurs. The remaining 10 teams would be done for the season.

The 20 teams would be allocated into five tiers in descending order by record.

Tier 1: Bucks, Lakers, Raptors, Clippers
Tier 2: Celtics, Nuggets, Jazz, Heat
Tier 3: Thunder, Rockets, Pacers, Sixers
Tier 4: Mavericks, Grizzlies, Nets, Magic
Tier 5: Blazers, Pelicans, Kings, Spurs
Groups would then be randomly drawn with one team from each tier. Teams from each group would play opponents within their own group twice, giving each team eight games. The two teams from each group with the best record would move on.

Sources say the NBA has also considered allowing Tier 1 teams to draft their own groups.

Eastern Conference teams have already pushed back at the league for the group stage suggestion, according to sources.

https://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/258253/NBA-Considering-20-Team-Group-Stage-To-Resume-Season-Instead-Of-Traditional-First-Round

[Crives]

So no Suns basketball? Great..

[ImNotMcDiSwear]

Tell me this isn't the most aggravating thing. Especially with how our season started. FOUR TEAMS FROM THE WEST on top of the normal playoff teams and we STILL can't sneak in. New low for how bad our franchise has been.

The NBA is considering a group stage with the resumption of the season as Adam Silver will have the opportunity to potentially test one of his more innovative changes during this unique period. This format would replace the traditional first round and determine the final eight remaining teams.

The 16 current playoff teams would quality for the group state along with the four teams with the next-best records, which include the Portland Trial Blazers, New Orleans Pelicans, Sacramento Kings and San Antonio Spurs. The remaining 10 teams would be done for the season.

The 20 teams would be allocated into five tiers in descending order by record.

Tier 1: Bucks, Lakers, Raptors, Clippers
Tier 2: Celtics, Nuggets, Jazz, Heat
Tier 3: Thunder, Rockets, Pacers, Sixers
Tier 4: Mavericks, Grizzlies, Nets, Magic
Tier 5: Blazers, Pelicans, Kings, Spurs
Groups would then be randomly drawn with one team from each tier. Teams from each group would play opponents within their own group twice, giving each team eight games. The two teams from each group with the best record would move on.

Sources say the NBA has also considered allowing Tier 1 teams to draft their own groups.

Eastern Conference teams have already pushed back at the league for the group stage suggestion, according to sources.

https://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/258253/NBA-Considering-20-Team-Group-Stage-To-Resume-Season-Instead-Of-Traditional-First-Round

AS IF I didn't already know we were terrible: nah, this ain't disappointing. Actually, watching justice finally being done by replacing crappy EC teams with good WC ones tickles me. Suck it, EC, you and all your sh*tty, pointless playoff games.

[starbosa10]

Tell me this isn't the most aggravating thing. Especially with how our season started. FOUR TEAMS FROM THE WEST on top of the normal playoff teams and we STILL can't sneak in. New low for how bad our franchise has been.

The NBA is considering a group stage with the resumption of the season as Adam Silver will have the opportunity to potentially test one of his more innovative changes during this unique period. This format would replace the traditional first round and determine the final eight remaining teams.

The 16 current playoff teams would quality for the group state along with the four teams with the next-best records, which include the Portland Trial Blazers, New Orleans Pelicans, Sacramento Kings and San Antonio Spurs. The remaining 10 teams would be done for the season.

The 20 teams would be allocated into five tiers in descending order by record.

Tier 1: Bucks, Lakers, Raptors, Clippers
Tier 2: Celtics, Nuggets, Jazz, Heat
Tier 3: Thunder, Rockets, Pacers, Sixers
Tier 4: Mavericks, Grizzlies, Nets, Magic
Tier 5: Blazers, Pelicans, Kings, Spurs
Groups would then be randomly drawn with one team from each tier. Teams from each group would play opponents within their own group twice, giving each team eight games. The two teams from each group with the best record would move on.

Sources say the NBA has also considered allowing Tier 1 teams to draft their own groups.

Eastern Conference teams have already pushed back at the league for the group stage suggestion, according to sources.

https://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/258253/NBA-Considering-20-Team-Group-Stage-To-Resume-Season-Instead-Of-Traditional-First-Round

AS IF I didn't already know we were terrible: nah, this ain't disappointing. Actually, watching justice finally being done by replacing crappy EC teams with good WC ones tickles me. Suck it, EC, you and all your sh*tty, pointless playoff games.

Blame Ayton for his dumb suspension

[Ghost of Kleine]

Spoiler:

I think it will be hard to get peak value though. the most popular deal seems to be Oubre for AG but I dont think AG really fits the team all that well.

You're not really wrong man on the value man. As other teams will become increasingly reluctant to give up equal to maximum value for a recently injured player without having a full season post injury to properly evaluate him before he becomes an unrestricted free agent in 2021, And unfortunately for us, The longer we hold him, The overall value ( contractually)that he'll return in a trade as a short term / rental decreases exponentially heading into 2021. Now to be fair, Trades that at this point and under the present circumstances that I'd wager are between maximum value to at least fair value would be:

Golden State-
Oubre/Diallo for the Golden State Warriors 17.2 million trade exception( Iggy) and their 2020 first Top 4 (pick swap)
(**Fair value).

Or Oubre/ Diallo for the Golden State Warriors 17.2 milliontrade exception ( Iggy) AND the Minnesota Timberwolves 2021 top 3 protected first ( ** Maximum value).

New York-
Oubre for Portis' 15 millionexpiring contract ( **Team option) declined/ the 27th pick/ And the Dallas unprotected 2021 first. *( Great value)

10- Draft one of Hayes/ Haliburton/ Anthony or Lewis.
27- Paul Reed or Reggie Perry.

Minnesota Timberwolves -
Oubre for James Johnson ( expires in 2021) 16th / 33rd picks ( fair value).

16- Draft Tyler Bey( Oubres' replacement) or Aaron Nesmith?
33- Paul Reed ( very impressive statistically and defensively versatile) or Elijah Hughes( 6'6, And almost identical to Oubre statistically and in terms of athleticism and energy/attitude).

Atlanta Hawks-
Oubre for Cam Reddish/ Kevin Huerter/ and a pick swap. So with this trade, we jump into the top 4. Now at 4, We draft Toppin.

***Next we ( resign for 8 million and trade ) Saric/ Diallo/ Okobo/ future conditional 2nd to Dallas for Seth Curry ( 8 million) and the 31st pick.
31- Grant Riller( Fred Van Vleet 2.0) or Malachi Flynn ( Elite skilled playmaking floor general). (Excellent value)!!!

Detroit-
Oubre for Luke Kennard *( IF he clears physical) and a pick swap ( fair value). Now at 5 we draft Toppin.
**Next we trade Saric( resigned for around 8 million)/ Diallo/ Okobo/ future conditional 2nd to Philly for Mike Scott/ Glenn Robinson 3rd and the 22nd pick.
22- Draft Kira Lewis (* IF he falls) or Tre Jones. *( Really Good value).


Chicago Bulls-
Oubre for Lauri Markkanen straight up trade **(equal value).
Or
Oubre for Wendell Carter Jr/ Kris Dunn*( resigned and traded) and a pick swap ( 10 for 7).
7- Draft Devin Vassell ( Oubres' replacement). (fair value).
**Then resign and trade Saric *( 8 million)/ Diallo/ Okobo to Dallas for Seth Curry and the 31st pick.
31- Draft Immanuel Quickly or Leandro Bolmero?

Charlotte Hornets-
Oubre for PJ Washington and the 8th pick. (** We keep our 10th pick) And then draft Jalen Smith or Paul Reed. *( good value).

Then we ...........
*** Trade the 8th pick to Boston for the Marcus Smart/ 17th pick and 30th pick. *( Great value).
*** Trade the 17th pick/ Saric (** resigned/ traded) Diallo/ to Dallas for Seth Curry. *( Great value).

30- Draft Tyler Bey **( IF he falls) or Elijah Hughes ( backup 3) or Jaden McDaniels ( Jonathan Isaac/ Rashard Lewis potential) to be Oubres' replacement.

Orlando-
Oubre/ Diallo / Okobo for Gordon/ James Ennis/ 45th pick.
45- Draft Cory Kispert (* Doug McDermott clone) or Elijah Hughes (* 6'6 Oubre clone) for added shooting depth around Gordon.

**************************
BLOCKBUSTER CLEVER 3 PART TRADE
1- Trade Oubre/ Diallo to Charlotte for the 8th pick/ PJ Washington. **( Fair value).

2- Trade 10th pick/ Saric ( resigned and traded * 8 million )/ Okobo to Orlando for Aaron Gordon/ James Ennis. *( good value).

3- **** Now trade the 8th pick/ Frank Kaminsky to Boston for Marcus Smart/ 26th/ 30th pick.

26- Draft Tyler Bey.
30- Draft Immanuel Quickly or Cory Kispert for ELITE added shooting depth.

So we can walk out of draft night only giving up Oubre/ Saric / Diallo( All players that we were likely to lose anyways) / and the 10th pick for:

Aaron Gordon ( athleticism/ defense).
-Marcus Smart ( playmaking/ defense ).
-James Ennis ( floor spacing / defense).
-PJ Washington ( high talent 3/4).
-Tyler Bey ( ELITE defensive playmaker/ rebounder).
-Immanuel Quickly ( ELITE perimeter shooter from three).

Opening night roster:

- Rubio/ Smart/ Jerome.
- Booker/ Quickly / James Ennis.
- Bridges/ Cam Johnson/ PJ Washington.
- Gordon/ Tyler Bey / Cam Johnson.
- Ayton/ Baynes/ free agent ( Noel or Len)?

We now have ELITE defense/ rebounding/ rim protection throughout the roster, Whilst still maintaining a high level of perimeter shooting from three as well.
Gordon being on a descending contract also allows us to maintain cap flexibility to extend both Bridges and Ayton too. And we can apply our available cap space to acquiring a playmaker in free agency or filling any other needs.

I'd love the Charlotte trade but they are so far from competing that it doesn't make sense for them. They have to be in win-now mode to consider trading last years pick and this years high pick for a guy who could walk.
I think we'd have to throw them more anyway. Oubre for a young talent on a rookie contract and this years #8 who will also be cost controlled doesn't seem as fair as one may think.

Definitely a reasonable consideration man.

We of course can flex the trade framework a bit IF necessary. Something along the lines of Oubre for the 8th pick/ Jalen McDaniels. Then we'd still trade the 8 to Boston as previously mentioned, But add McDaniels. So then the trade with Boston could become the 8th pick/ and Jalen McDaniels for Marcus Smart and the 26th and 30th picks.

26- Jalen Smith or Tyler Bey.
30- Paul Reed or Elijah Hughes.


But for my part, With Charlotte, I see it as they could sell Oubre on having a guaranteed starting role easily, Also Charlotte will have a ton of money to offer him to potentially resign. Which will of course be a top priority and consideration for a young player like Oubre who's recently coming off a knee injury. So again, with this being his first real shot at a big contract, As well as the added security it would offer him(* post injury) that he'll be looking for, They'd have to feel really good about their chances of resigning him. Not to mention, He'd probably be better than anyone else they might draft at 8, right from the start. So that makes the risk in trading for him much more palatable. With that being said, I really think Oubre will definitely go for the money. Not only that, But with Kemba gone, They could could actually sell him on the idea of it bring his team IF he so chooses??

Also, they both ( Charlotte/ Oubre) upon further open discussions of plans could likely feel that they can now upgrade their roster greatly after signing him, And turning a corner in free agency, As he'd make them a somewhat more desirable destination as part of their new core. Along with their potentially large cap space that they'll have in 2020-2021. But again, We can always take out Washington and switch him with McDaniels IF need be, to make the trade more palatable for Charlotte. But ultimately, I really think that they'd be fully on board with the trade in spite of the potential risk, As they're probably pretty hungry for more rapid growth and improvement, And Oubre would provide that for them better /more rapidly than what a rookie would. So similiar to how New York would also likely be willing to take bigger risks for rapid improvement, I see Charlotte as having the same situational mindset

[Revived]

Tell me this isn't the most aggravating thing. Especially with how our season started. FOUR TEAMS FROM THE WEST on top of the normal playoff teams and we STILL can't sneak in. New low for how bad our franchise has been.

AS IF I didn't already know we were terrible: nah, this ain't disappointing. Actually, watching justice finally being done by replacing crappy EC teams with good WC ones tickles me. Suck it, EC, you and all your sh*tty, pointless playoff games.

Blame Ayton for his dumb suspension

Almost forgot about that, but yeah that alone basically ruined the season from the start.