Phoenix Suns’ Roster Changes Aren’t as Bad as Grades Suggest

The Phoenix Suns were a focal point entering the offseason after a 36-46 season, facing the likely trade of Kevin Durant and the need to resolve Bradley Beal's situation.

The Suns traded Durant to the Houston Rockets, acquiring Dillon Brooks, Jalen Green, the No. 10 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft (Khaman Maluach), and five second-round picks. They also stretched and waived Beal's contract.

While losing star talents like Durant and Beal appears damaging, the Suns added young potential in Green and Maluach, depth in Brooks, and acquired center Mark Williams shortly after drafting Maluach.

Media outlets like ESPN and Yahoo Sports graded the Suns' offseason as average (C+ and C, respectively). However, the article argues it deserves at least a B grade, contending that evaluations shouldn't be based solely on recouping star name value.

Given the franchise's situation—a soured relationship with Durant making a trade inevitable to start a new era around Devin Booker—the moves were necessary. Green offers future star potential, Brooks provides valuable role-player depth, and Maluach addresses a major hole at center for long-term stability.

Waiving Beal creates a significant five-year dead salary cap burden. Despite this financial handicap, the move allowed the Suns to avoid the second apron and was deemed necessary for both parties. The article suggests Beal's cap hit is unlikely to be the sole factor preventing the Suns from contending in the next five years.

Considering the Suns' 36-win season, the moves addressed real roster weaknesses. The offseason is viewed as productive overall, making positive moves for both the short and long term while building around Booker in his prime, despite parting with two major stars.