How would it work for Phoenix?
Now, obviously, this post is more of a pipe dream than anything until we hear otherwise, but a move like this could legitimately put the Phoenix Suns in a position to compete in the West in the next 2-3 years, and make the playoffs as early as this upcoming season. For the lineup to work though, the Suns would need to ask a lot of their young players as far as growth and maturity a lot faster then they might have had to in other situations.
For Booker, it would be all about defense and improved playmaking. He is still the number one option on this team, no matter who joins this team outside of a select group of mega stars.
For Jackson, he would need to focus on rebounding better, as well as being more locked in defensively. If the Suns take Ayton, he would be the anchor inside, but that would require his help-side defense and shot blocking to greatly improve in his first couple of seasons.
For MPJ, he would have to be willing to become a jack of all trades. He would need to rebound, defend the post and the perimeter, and be willing to defer offensively when needed.
From what I’ve seen and read about Porter’s attitude, I believe he’s up for that challenge. He is very competitive, and he loves winning more than anything. That is an attitude the Phoenix Suns sorely need.
Next: DeAndre Ayton makes the Phoenix Suns relevant
No matter who Phoenix would go with at this pick, I think a trade like this would be a home run for Phoenix. It would lock in their core for practically the next decade and it would give them numerous talented, lengthy playmakers that can all play multiple positions (talk about a position-less lineup). Even if the team takes Trae Young, it gives the Suns a great playmaking guard with almost Stephen Curry range to pair with the defending 3-point contest winner.
If – and I mean if – the Phoenix Suns can pull off a trade like this without giving up any super-valuable asset in return, I truly believe they should jump at the opportunity. Draft classes like this one don’t come around that often, and players at the top of this draft don’t grow on trees.
It’s time to be aggressive, and this move is definitely one way to do just that.