The younger guys
Karl-Anthony Towns and Kristaps Porzingis are both intriguing options. They’re both just 22, and they’d both be great fits next to Ayton. Unfortunately, both are restricted free agents.
Towns has played center most of his career, but he’s been successful in the time he’s spent at power forward. He and Ayton both have the versatility to make that pairing successful. He’s also a good friend of Devin Booker, his former teammate at Kentucky.
He’s made it clear he’s unhappy in Minnesota, but the Timberwolves have made it equally clear that they have no plans of letting him walk. Unless that changes, Towns isn’t a realistic target for the Phoenix Suns.
Porzingis, on the other hand, has a much better chance of hitting the open market. He’ll miss significant time next season with an ACL injury, and there’s always a chance the dysfunctional Knicks don’t want to commit to him on a max contract.
He’s a natural 7-3 power forward, and he’d be a great fit next to Deandre Ayton. But the Knicks should (and probably will) match any offer thrown his way.
The last guy on the list is Kyrie Irving, the best and most realistic fit of anyone. Irving walking away from Boston is a real possibility, and the scoring power of an Irving-Booker tandem would give other teams nightmares. Last year for the Celtics he was a great leader on a team full of young guys that over-performed in the regular season.
Of course, he comes with questions as well. His defense and effort are questionable at times. He struggles to stay healthy, too. But he’s still only 26, and he’s a perfect fit. He’s also talented enough to make the Suns an instant competitor, especially if they went out and added another All-Star via trade.
Next: Phoenix Suns: Interest in Kawhi Leonard is exciting
This summer may have been a disappointment to some, but the Suns are in perfect position to make a huge splash next year, and there are plenty of intriguing options that could be available. Next summer could be the most exciting time Phoenix basketball has seen in years.