The team to monitor if the Phoenix Suns want a forward

The Phoenix Suns reportedly want to add to their forward rotation, with proposed trades ideas emanating now that Kevin Durant is no longer available (for the moment).

If the Suns do indeed want a forward, whether that’s in addition to or as a replacement to what they already have, then one team has a gluttony of options that could become available.

The Washington Wizards may present as a team to monitor for the Phoenix Suns should they wish to add forward depth over the next six months.

The Wizards don’t appear overly well balanced, with a number of forwards that aren’t major difference-makers but are solid enough to expect playing time. The result of this will probably be the transition of Kristaps Porzingis into a full-time starting center, opening up more minutes for others at both forward positions.

Rui Hachimura and Kyle Kuzma will likely start for Washington, although the newly acquired Will Barton may also lay claim to the small-forward role. Former top 10 pick Deni Avdija will expect significant minutes off the bench, as will last year’s lottery pick Corey Kispert.

That’s five forwards already not including Isaiah Todd, the Wizards 31st pick in this year’s draft. They also signed veteran Taj Gibson, and they may need to start Daniel Gafford alongside Porzingis if the latter’s role at center isn’t sustainable.

You’d expect one of these forwards to be expendable at some stage, and although their not all desirable from a Suns perspective, there are one or two that could prove valuable additions.

If I’m James Jones, Kuzma is the number one target of this crop. The 27-year-old is making $13 million this upcoming season and has a player option for the following one. There’s a good chance he opts out of that, both because he’ll rightfully think he can earn more, and also because he may simply want out of Washington.

Don’t expect the Wizards to make a deal soon. With Bradley Beal returning from injury and on a new five-year supermax deal, Washington want to compete for a playoff spot. But if things go wrong early in the season, and if the prospect of losing Kuzma arises, then maybe he becomes available.

Either way, if the Suns don’t make a move before the start of the season, then they should certainly monitor the situation in Washington for a potential upgrade at the forward position.