3. Keita Bates-Diop
Bates-Diop has the prototypical body for a wing. He is a 6’8 with a 7’3 wingspan. The 27-year-old can play anywhere two through four and has even filled in as a small ball five in a pinch. Teams get excited about size and KBD could garner some attention because of his.
Bates-Diop has played in 16 straight games but averages just 6.3 points, 3.6 rebounds, 0.8 steals, and 0.9 blocks in 20.4 minutes each night. He is shooting 41.5 percent from the field and 28.1 percent on his 3-point tries. The 27-year-old shot a career-high 39.4 percent from long range last season, and the Suns hoped it would be the new normal.
Bates-Diop has produced 0.1 value over replacement player (VORP) so far this season and a negative box score plus-minus. He is still adjusting to his new team, but the Suns want playoff experience as they look to chase a championship. The 6’8 forward has played just 24 total minutes in the postseason, and Suns fans should temper their expectations.
Keita Bates-Diop could be on the trade block before the deadline. The Phoenix Suns have virtually no draft capital, so they would be dealing talent for upgrades. Teams want 6’8 wings with versatility. KBD has it, but the Suns would have to package him with multiple players to land a meaningful upgrade before Feb. 8.