During this year’s offseason, the Phoenix Suns reeled in several big fish, most notably their returning point guards Chris Paul and Cameron Payne, as well as high-flying big man JaVale McGee. But even after closing the books on that “free agent frenzy” only a few weeks ago, Suns fans find themselves begging for a sequel already.
Following the 2021-22 campaign, current projections from Spotract.com name the Suns as the seventh best cap oriented team heading into free agency. Extensions for Mikal Bridges and Deandre Ayton coming sooner rather than later might alter that, but for now, the Suns look well suited to pursue future talent.
Likely still shaping up as a contending team a year from now, Phoenix must utilize their finances accordingly and beef up their roster anyway possible. Next year’s free agent class already looks loaded. Game breaking talents like James Harden, Russell Westbrook, and Bradley Beal headline it, with several other notable names shortly following.
No matter how the Suns manage the Ayton and Bridges extensions, superstars like the ones listed above will almost certainly fall outside their fiscal reach. But for the countless others right below them, the Suns can carve out paths before them which lead to The Valley especially if they wisely exercise their mid-level exception, and pitch well to veterans willing to take on minimum contracts.
The upcoming regular season absolutely remains Phoenix’s prime focus right now, but to take a sneak peak into the future, these three free agents identify as strong additions which the Suns need to pursue.