5 key aspects to the Suns getting over the championship hump

1.    Added big man versatility

With Saric out with injury, Phoenix lacked the ability to go small with a three-point shooting option at the center position. Not that this is a primary line-up by any means, but it is nice for Williams to at least have that versatility available.

DeAndre Ayton increased his three-point percentage to a more than solid 36.8% during the regular season, however he still only attempted 0.3 per game.

Having Saric back should open up more options, without having to fully compromise the rebounding and interior presence by playing a frontcourt of wings in Johnson, Mikal Bridges and Jae Crowder.

The Suns also added 6’11” Australian Jock Landale, a capable perimeter threat who attempted an average of 1.6 threes in 54 games with the San Antonio Spurs last season.

2.    Trading for a superstar

If the front office doesn’t believe that the aforementioned aspects are enough, that this roster isn’t capable of lifting the Larry O’Brien trophy as constructed, then they may take a swing at a league-tilting move.

Right now, the realistic target is Kevin Durant. Having requested a trade from the Brooklyn Nets, the Suns are reportedly at the top of Durant’s preference list.

Is Jones willing to part with Bridges, Johnson, perhaps a sign-and-trade with Ayton, plus a host of future first-round picks? That’s what he and the front office would be mulling over as we speak.

Pairing Durant with Booker and Paul would form an incomparable trio, one that would catapult the Suns into championship favouritism heading into next season.