5 Dream trade deadline targets for Suns (and what they'd cost)
By Tyler Watts
2. Royce O’Neale
The Suns are eager to add a 3-and-D wing, but should they target O’Neale? The 30-year-old is on a $9.5 million expiring contract and is rumored to be on the trade block. Brooklyn wants a first-round draft pick in return but has been unable to find someone willing to offer it. That could open the door for the Suns to swoop in.
O’Neale has helped his team get to the playoffs in six straight years, but the 6’4 guard is still looking for his first championship. The Nets are currently 11th in the East, and his minutes are down. O’Neale would welcome joining a contender and having a shot at a championship.
What would it cost to acquire O’Neale: 4 2nd-round draft picks plus salary-matching
This is certainly an all-in trade for the Suns. Royce O’Neale is a career 38.1 percent 3-point shooter who can guard multiple positions. His playmaking has improved in Brooklyn, and the 6’4 guard makes plays on both ends of the floor.
O’Neale would likely play 30-plus minutes in Phoenix. He would take a few minutes from Grayson Allen and Eric Gordon as he helped the Suns' defense. This is far from a no-brainer, but the 30-year-old would certainly increase their title odds.