The Phoenix Suns could have traded for Cam Whitmore as part of the Kevin Durant package from the Rockets but instead chose two second-round draft picks that were flipped to take Rasheer Fleming. Whitmore and Fleming were born two days apart, despite Cam entering his third NBA season. The Rockets traded Whitmore to the Wizards for two second-rounders, which left Suns fans fuming ().
Whitmore struggled to get minutes in Houston, but he averaged 10.8 points and 3.4 rebounds in 17.4 minutes per game. The 6’7 wing is an absolute bucket. His advanced metrics look strong in a limited sample, and the Suns desperately need young building blocks. Whitmore seems like the perfect option, but Phoenix chose Fleming over him.
This tracks with the team’s new defensive emphasis. Playing Devin Booker, Jalen Green, and Cam Whitmore together would have been difficult, but the 21-year-old would thrive in a sixth-man role. Just coming in and getting buckets is what he does. If Whitmore blossoms in Washington with a larger role, the regret will only grow in Phoenix.
Suns missed a golden opportunity to land Cam Whitmore in Kevin Durant trade
Fleming was a two-way force for St. Joe’s in his junior season, but he profiles as more of an energy forward in the NBA. Kevin O’Connor compared him to Brandon Bass and Larry Nance Jr. in his draft resources. Two years ago, he compared Whitmore to Miles Bridges and Corey Maggette. The two players are the same age and eager to make an immediate impact.
Whitmore should get plenty of touches in Washington, and fans will soon find out what he can do. Do not be surprised to see him averaging 18 points per game and being a threat on both ends of the floor. He was right there for the Suns to acquire, but Phoenix chose Fleming over him.
Suns fans will be tracking this for years to come. If Cam Whitmore shines in the nation’s capital, they will know all about it. Fleming could become a key role player on a contending team quickly. The Suns bet on his skill set meshing better with their current talent. It might, but Whitmore has a chance to leave Phoenix supporters wishing and hurting for years to come.
Suns owner Mat Ishbia is no stranger to making a mistake. He gave up a ton for Kevin Durant and traded him for a fraction of that price. Finding value in the NBA isn’t easy. Cam Whitmore was right there for the franchise, but the front office went a different way. Now, the pressure is on for that move to work. If it doesn’t, fans will be outraged, especially if the Suns face a lengthy rebuild from the disastrous moves adding up. So far, it looks closer by the day.