Phoenix Suns can go ‘all in’ on 3x All-Star and future franchise point-guard

The Phoenix Suns immediate outlook with Ben Simmons

While Simmons may not provide the prototypical three-and-D value that Crowder does, he could slide into the power-forward role and be effective in the Suns system. The combination of he and Bridges would instantly become one of, if the not the best wing defensive duo in the league.

Offensively, although Simmons’ complete lack of shooting would create some spacing issues, he would bring some elements the Suns desperately lack.

Phoenix were an average fast-break team last season, ranking 14th with 12.5 fast-break points per game. Simmons could instantly elevate that, with his size, athleticism and facilitating making him one of the best transition players in the league.

The half-court offense may prove more difficult to establish. However, with the high basketball IQ of the Suns starters, Monty Williams could find ways to integrate Simmons effectively. He can be an efficient off-ball cutter, and could continue the Suns frequent pick-and-roll game as either the ball-handler or the roll man.

Ideally, you’d split his minutes with Paul as much as possible, giving Simmons a license to run second units where he can be the primary ball-handler. You could also play him as a center when Ayton’s off the floor, surrounding him with four shooters and letting him do what he does best – attack down hill and kick it out.

The Phoenix Suns long-term outlook with Ben Simmons

An underrated and important aspect of such a deal would be giving the Suns a long-term successor to Chris Paul. By doing so, it also doesn’t restrict Phoenix’s ability to offer Johnson a long-term starting role.

Even by the start of the following season, you could have a five-man group of Simmons, Booker, Bridges, Johnson and Ayton. Not only would that be one of the best and most versatile defensive lineups in the league, but there’s enough shooting to make them an incredibly dangerous offensive unit.

Should Paul remain at the franchise, he could comfortably transition into a sixth man role as he nears 40 years of age. Yes, the depth past that may be hampered by making this deal, but as a team you back yourself to attract experienced role-playing free agents seeking a championship.

Simmons is an undoubted risk for anyone willing to trade for him. But the Suns current young pieces mitigate those risks, with the potential upside being franchise-altering should the franchise get it right.