4x All-Star isn’t the answer for the Phoenix Suns despite recent reports
It’s no secret the Phoenix Suns could do with more point-guard depth, with the issue rearing its head as both Chris Paul and Cameron Payne struggled towards the end of the playoffs.
As the franchise attempts to upgrade a championship contending roster, a number of options have been mentioned as possible targets. Now, the Suns have been linked with one of the best point-guards across the last decade.
The Phoenix Suns require another backup point guard, but four-time All-Star Kemba Walker shouldn’t be a primary candidate for James Jones and the front office.
According to Sean Deveney of Heavy.com, a league executive believes Walker could be of interest to the Suns should he complete a buyout with the Detroit Pistons as expected.
"“There was talk about him going to Charlotte, and that would be a good story for a team that might need one with the (Miles) Bridges stuff,” said the executive. “But if he wants to play for a contender, he’s probably best off looking at Phoenix.They need another point guard, they need depth behind Paul. Give him a non-guaranteed deal and see how it goes, you can still make a change in January.”"
Injuries have undoubtedly slowed Walker down from his previous All-Star level form. The once explosive first step has deteriorated, while the defense, which was never good to begin with, has become an even greater weakness.
He’s still a competent three-point shooter, knocking down nearly 37% of his attempts last season with the Knicks. His one season in New York ended in failure though, with Walker and the franchise coming to an agreement that he wouldn’t play soon after the trade deadline.
Walker has been a marvellous NBA player, yet at just 32 years of age, there’s growing question marks on what value he has left at NBA level. He deserves an opportunity in a backup role, but should it be with the Suns?
The best case would be Walker proving a productive regular season player for 15 minutes per game. But even in that circumstance, his defensive weaknesses would make him a liability and near unplayable come playoff time.
As a championship contending team who needs to squeeze value out of their last roster spots, Phoenix need someone who they believe can be a significant contributor to a playoff run. On exposed evidence in the last 12 months, Walker doesn’t present as that option.