Phoenix Suns: Crowder trade target not so easy to orchestrate

The Phoenix Suns are still looking to finalize a deal for veteran forward Jae Crowder, with no trade forthcoming after the confirmation of his trade request around three weeks ago.

The 32-year-old has been linked to moves with the Atlanta Hawks, Milwaukee Bucks and a return to the Miami Heat, but it’s clear Phoenix want to make a deal on their own terms. The Suns intentions have now become clearer, with Utah Jazz guard Jordan Clarkson continuing to be on the radar as the regular season approaches.

The Phoenix Suns interest in Jordan Clarkson makes sense, but orchestrating a deal with the Utah Jazz could prove easier said than done.

Yahoo Sports’ Jake Fischer delivered an update regarding Crowder on Wednesday, outlining the Suns interest in Clarkson as the Jazz enter a major rebuild.

"“Jordan Clarkson, one of the many veterans thought to be available in Utah, is one dynamic guard the Suns have inquired about landing in exchange for Crowder”, sources said."

As previously mentioned throughout the offseason, Clarkson would be an ideal fit in Phoenix from an on-court perspective. The former Sixth Man of the Year winner could provide the much needed shot-creation the Suns sorely miss behind Chris Paul and Devin Booker.

The issue with a potential deal is Clarkson’s $13.3 million yearly salary; that shades Crowder’s $10.1 million and subsequently makes a straight swap unviable. Fisher also suggests that, given Crowder would likely be bought out immediately, Utah would need a pick to incentivise them to make the deal.

All of a sudden you’re talking a package of Crowder, a minimum contract like Josh Okogie or Bismack Biyombo, and potentially a lottery protected first-round pick. Is that all worth it for Clarkson?

Fisher also believes the Suns have interest in the Houston Rockets’ K.J Martin, along with Boston Celtics guard Derrick White. Both would be intriguing prospects, particularly White who’d provide a steady presence at the guard position off the bench.

A direct Crowder-White swap may be more advantageous to the Suns than having to package multiple assets for Clarkson, even if the Suns prefer the skillset the latter could provide.