5 Newcomers who could be long-term Phoenix Suns
By Tyler Watts
The Phoenix Suns went all-in this summer by trading for Bradley Beal and completely remaking their bench. Denver is still the favorite to win the Western Conference, but the Suns are embracing the underdog role. Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Beal may be the best Big 3 in the NBA, and Phoenix is primed to compete with any team.
Booker, Josh Okogie, Damion Lee, and Ish Wainwright are the only players remaining from their opening night roster in 2022. New owner Mat Ishbia instantly made a splash and continues to spend. The Suns are over the second tax apron and primed with talent. Can they make it all fit?
Phoenix’s spending will make it difficult to add players moving forward. They need to have all the key pieces if they want to contend for multiple championships. Which players will stay in the Valley of the Sun for the foreseeable future?
5. Eric Gordon
Gordon has been linked to the Suns multiple times, including signing an offer sheet with Phoenix in 2012 that New Orleans matched, but he finally arrived this summer. The veteran signed a two-year deal featuring a player option next summer. He wants to chase a ring and should get plenty of open looks playing off the Suns’ three superstars.
Gordon turns 35 in December and could finish his playing career in Phoenix. He is unlikely to get more than minimum offers at this stage, so it will come down to where the 6’3 guard wants to play. If he continues to get buckets, the Suns will be happy to have him as a key rotation piece.
Eric Gordon is a 25 to 28-minute per-game option at this stage in his career. His defense is below average, but he is a plus floor spacer and scorer with playmaking ability. Every contender needs someone who can get hot off the bench, but he is not the only newcomer who is looking to make the Valley of the Sun a long-term home.