Top Free Agent addition for Phoenix Suns’ Pacific rival – Sacramento Kings
As mentioned, the Kings have had some cash to splash over the offseason. They began by trading for more perimeter talent in the way of 23-year-old Kevin Huerter from the Atlanta Hawks.
That was only a precursor though as the franchise went and stole Malik Monk from their Pacific rivals on a two-year, $19 million deal. In an otherwise disastrous season for the Lakers, Monk was a rare bright spot as he continued his ascent into a valuable rotation player capable of big scoring games.
The 24-year-old was given a primary role on an under resourced Lakers roster, playing the most game-time of his career as he elevated every major statistical category. Monk averaged career-highs in points (13.8), rebounds (3.4) and assists (2.9) while shooting 47.3% from the field and 39.1% from three-point range.
While he could start next to explosive point-guard De’Aaron Fox, that appears unlikely given the defensive limitations. Still, Monk could project as one of the best sixth men in the league and a serious threat for Phoenix and other opposition defenses.
Top Free Agent addition for Phoenix Suns’ Pacific rival – Los Angeles Clippers
The Clippers may possess one of the highest payrolls in the league, but that didn’t stop them from making a notable addition on the free agent market. After agreeing to a buyout with the Houston Rockets, the Clippers signed five-time All-Star John Wall to a two-year, $13.3 million contract.
Wall proved himself to still be a productive, albeit inefficient NBA player last time we saw him in 2020-21. In 40 games with the Rockets, he averaged 20.6 points and 6.9 assists but shot just over 40% from the field and 30% from three-point range.
The 31-year-old isn’t an absolute necessity given the Clippers loaded roster, but he is an incredibly high-upside risk to take should he return to anywhere near his previous form. It remains to be seen whether he could make a play at the starting point-guard role, or whether that will remain with fellow veteran Reggie Jackson.
It’s also worth noting that his absence last season was due to Houston deciding not to play him, rather than through the injury issues that have so often plagued him. That means Wall could be ready to present as a dangerous prospect for the Clippers to have at their disposal.