Following a season that included an NBA Finals berth for the first time in 28 years, the Phoenix Suns will need to be active in the offseason if they hope to reach a similar stage during their 2021-22 campaign.
Although we can expect the Suns to try and bring back most of their free agents from last year, specifically Chris Paul, still bringing aboard some talented newcomers could make life easier as well. However, that might be difficult if Phoenix indeed re-signs Paul, who will likely push the team above the salary cap.
But luckily for the Suns, they still possess their non taxpayer mid-level exception, which allows them to sign one or two free agents for just under 10 million dollars without it counting towards the luxury tax.
This loophole is not only something the Suns can use to their advantage, but something which they must as a “win now” type of team. Other squads out West continue to grow more threatening each day, and the Suns must keep pace.
So to do so, here are some candidates who can not only help the Suns hold off their inter-conference opponents, but also take them from just NBA Finals participants—to world champions.