Phoenix Suns Offseason Plans Part 3: Free Agency
By Adam Maynes
Of the three methods of improving an NBA roster, free agency is the one that is most dependent upon the results of outside factors. Through the draft a star player can be had at a bargain basement price. Through trade, players can be acquired in such a way that allows them to fit snugly under the salary cap. But through free agency, star players are so rarely available, the method is best used to fill in holes or add depth, and less to re-shape a franchise.
It seems that this summer, the Suns’ biggest improvements to the roster will be made via the draft and trade. Phoenix will have a top-5 pick guaranteed, and with any luck top-3, which will all but guarantee quality talent. They will also have significant assets to work with (especially if they draft a point guard) and may acquire additional star players through trade.
The fascinating thing about this offseason for the Suns is that because of so much open cap space and the option of trading away expensive contracts to open up additional wiggle room, they really could make a serious splash in free agency, if Ryan McDonough’s goal is to make a legitimate leap in the standings next season.
However, the most likely scenario is that any pieces added via free agency will be veterans who will accept minor roles while mentoring the young up-and-coming stars, as it was last summer.