5 Newly-available trade targets Suns should pursue after Dec. 15
By Tyler Watts
4. Dennis Smith Jr.
The former top-ten pick was nearly out of the league before a bounce-back season with the Hornets in 2023. Knee injuries have sapped some of his elite athleticism, but the 6’2 guard has upped his defense. He also makes plays and provides energy as a backup ball-handler.
The Suns do not have a true point guard on their roster. Devin Booker has become an elite playmaker, and Bradley Beal will handle the ball plenty, but they need a point guard who is looking to set up his teammates in the playoffs. Dennis Smith Jr. could be that option for the second unit, and the 26-year-old wants his first playoff experience.
DSJ is not the perfect fit. He is a career 29.9 percent 3-point shooter who struggles playing off the ball. His on-ball defense and passing make up for it, especially when the Suns have just one of their Big 3 on the floor.
Smith Jr. signed a one-year veteran minimum deal in the offseason, and the Nets could look to cash out before the Feb. 8 trade deadline. The Suns have limited draft capital, but it may only take a couple of second-round picks to get DSJ from Brooklyn. It is certainly a situation to monitor.