After watching Phoenix lose to Minnesota in the first round of the playoffs, it was clear some changes were coming. First, Frank Vogel was fired. Mike Budenholzer is the new coach..
The next goal, they reportedly said, is to find a pure point guard who can command the floor. and the well-connected John Gambadro of Arizona Sports 98.7 FM in Phoenix. (Hat Tip Real GMThe goal, reportedly, is to find a true point guard who can play 20+ minutes a night.
This coincides with what Budenholzer said in his introductory press conference: “The discussions are going well, we've looked at all the players and we definitely need to talk about point guard.”
The Suns also reportedly want to acquire an athletic wing and a backup center.
The question is how much of that will be done with the Suns' total payroll, which is already above the second apron, severely limiting the moves they can make. With just the big three of Kevin Durant, Devin Booker and Bradley Beal, the Suns' total payroll is $150.7 million, and the league salary cap is $141 million. Add in Jusuf Nurkic ($18.1 million), Grayson Allen ($15.6 million) and Nasir Little ($6.8 million), and the Suns are above the dreaded second apron tax, but they still Re-signing Royce O'Neale And complete the roster.
The Suns will only be able to acquire free agents willing to play for the league minimum salary. Their top target is rumored to be Kyle Lowry, but others like Kris Dunn are possible. Phoenix could also look to make a trade, but because they are beyond the second apron, they cannot acquire a player in a trade and would have to receive back the same or less money they sent (they cannot add salary). With limited assets on the roster, finding the right trade could be difficult.
However they go about doing it, expect the Suns to add a point guard this summer.
