Why the Phoenix Suns should trade for Russell Westbrook

The Phoenix Suns finally addressed the point guard position with the signing of Monté Morris, but that shouldn’t stop them from adding another one to round out the roster.

Outside of Morris, the bench still lacks any kind of ball handler. Another point guard would not only provide injury insurance to him and the Suns’ stars, but would also allow Morris to play off the ball at times, which he excels at. 

The Suns probably aren’t going to find that kind of player in free agency, as the market has all but dried up. Luckily, a former MVP is currently in limbo on the trade market.

When Russell Westbrook opted into his player option with the Los Angeles Clippers for this upcoming season, it seemed like a clear sign that he would remain with them. His contract with the Clippers is less than $1 million more than the veteran minimum, so there was little reason for him to go through the trouble of a trade when he could just pick his team as a free agent.

But that appears to be exactly what’s happening, as the Clippers are reportedly currently trying to move him.

It’s a bit frustrating that the Suns would have to trade for a player that they otherwise could’ve just signed, but Westbrook would still be well worth it, as he’s significantly better than anyone else they could realistically land.

Westbrook may not be as good as he once was, but he’s gracefully accepted a bench role and still exhibits the skills that made him a superstar.

He’s still a dynamic athlete, and now one of the best playmakers off the bench in the league. He’s a relentless attacker and can push the pace in transition, which would be a dynamic the Suns missed last season. His move to the bench has resulted in him rediscovering his defensive roots now that he isn't playing starter minutes.

Westbrook is also extremely familiar with Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal, both of whom had some of their best years with him. He naturally compliments both of their games, and should have no problem showcasing that chemistry in lineups with each of them. 

The negatives with Westbrook are the same as they’ve always been. His 3-point shooting has gotten even worse with age, while his mid-range has completely abandoned him. He turns over the ball at a high rate and his decision making leaves much to be desired. 

Some of those areas are the same ones that the Suns struggled in last season, especially turnovers and 3-point shooting. But those flaws in Westbrook’s game are always less glaring when surrounded by complimentary talent. The Suns have enough of that kind of talent to never force Westbrook into lineups that highlight those flaws. 

Westbrook opting in knowing he’d be traded means he probably has control over where he gets sent to. The Suns present a unique opportunity to win now while allowing him to reconnect with some teammates of the past.

And while things may have been rocky with Durant in the years following the latter's departure to Golden State, they seem to be on good terms now. Westbrook had a terrible relationship with Frank Vogel when they were both on the Lakers, but that’s no longer the roadblock it was last season with the Suns moving on from the coach.

Like other players in that contract range, the only Sun that can be swapped for Westbrook one for one is Nassir Little. They can add in a second-round pick to sweeten the deal, but if Westbrook does control his destination, it might not even cost that. 

Besides providing excellent value for his contract and role, Westbrook would also bring an intensity to the team. That's something that the Suns missed last season, and can only be addressed with a player like Westbrook.