The Phoenix Suns‘ early playoff exit this season could lead to several changes for the franchise. Head coach Frank Vogel is likely on the chopping block after his team was swept by the Minnesota Timberwolves in the opening round. Bradley Beal could be moved if the Suns can find a taker and Beal waves his no-trade clause. Even Kevin Durant isn’t a certainty in Phoenix next year. Most of the rumors, though, surround star guard Devin Booker
Booker is the longest-tenured member of the franchise among that trio. He helped lead the Suns to the 2021 NBA Finals before an eventual loss to the Milwaukee Bucks. Durant may be the most recognizable name, but Booker is the straw that stirs the drink in Phoenix.
That also means he’s the most valuable asset the Suns have if they want to shake up a roster that appears to have reached its ceiling. Conflicting reports surround Booker’s availability on the trade market and his desire to stay or go, but the list of potential destinations just got longer by two.
Oklahoma City Thunder, San Antonio Spurs named as possible landing spots for Devin Booker
The most common rumor involving Booker and a potential trade is a deal that would see him land with the New York Knicks. The 27-year-old may or may not desire the chance to play with Jalen Brunson, but the Knicks are a logical match if Phoenix decides it needs to move its star.
And recently, an NBA executive floated out to Ric Bucher of Fox Sports the idea of the four-time All-Star joining a pair of Western Conference upstarts:
San Antonio has the assets to get him. So does Oklahoma City. And it’s really the only way Phoenix can change course.
Both the Spurs and Thunder have loads of first-round draft picks to send the Suns’ way, which could help restock the asset cupboard for Phoenix after it traded for Durant and Beal. OKC also has several young players it could add to a deal.
Creating a pairing of Booker and Victor Wembanyama would be fascinating for San Antonio. Adding the 2021-22 First-Team All-NBA guard to a backcourt that features Shai Gilgeous-Alexander would make a Thunder team that already earned the No. 1 seed in this year’s Western Conference Playoffs even more dangerous.
It remains to be seen where, when or even if Booker is traded, but the list of possible destinations keeps growing.
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