Phoenix Suns Trade Rumors: Ranking Every Player’s Likelihood of Being Moved Before the Deadline
As the NBA trade deadline of February 6th rapidly approaches, teams are beginning to assess their rosters and potential moves. With December 15th marking the date when most players become eligible to be traded, speculation is intensifying across the league. Analyzing the current Phoenix Suns, one analyst is ranking each player based on their perceived trade probability, categorizing them into four tiers: “Not Happening,” “1% Chance,” “Possibly,” and “Names I’d Look Out For.”
The Suns currently boast a 17-man roster comprised of 14 players on guaranteed contracts and three on two-way deals. Importantly, even these two-way players are potential trade assets, as demonstrated last year when Jared Butler was moved from the Washington Wizards to the Philadelphia 76ers for Reggie Jackson. The 76ers, in a rebuilding phase, sought a young player, while the Wizards created an open two-way spot.
Two-Way Talent: Low Trade Value
The initial tier focuses on the Suns’ two-way contract players. This group is expected to be the largest, given the team’s current success. Several players fall into this category due to their recent acquisitions and developmental status.
One player unlikely to be moved is a recent two-way signee who has earned playing time due to injuries. This player is viewed as a potential “diamond-in-the-rough,” mirroring the trajectory of Collin Gillespie last year, and the Suns need to evaluate their potential with a guaranteed roster spot. Similarly, a rookie drafted by the team is considered untouchable, as the organization believes in their long-term shooting potential, despite limited playing time. Another two-way player, a solid scorer on the wing when healthy, is also deemed unlikely to be traded, with the team prioritizing their continued development and creating a future roster spot.
Core Players: Virtually Untouchable
Moving to the core of the team, several players are considered off-limits. Devin Booker, the franchise cornerstone, is unequivocally staying with the Suns. “Clearly, they are not going to be moving off of him,” one source stated, emphasizing the team’s commitment to building around him, reinforced by his recent contract extension.
Similarly, fan favorite Collin Gillespie is considered invaluable. Despite being a former two-way player, Gillespie has become a critical offensive contributor, especially during injuries to key players, all while on a minimum contract. The Suns “cannot lose him and will not,” according to one observer. Mark Williams, a significant offseason acquisition, is also firmly in the team’s long-term plans, bringing a much-needed presence to the center position. A recently drafted rookie is also expected to remain with the team, allowing for continued development in the G League with the potential for increased NBA minutes later in the season.
Solid Contributors: Likely to Stay
Several players are considered valuable contributors and are unlikely to be moved. Goodwin has re-established himself in Phoenix, providing consistent offensive production and hitting 37% of his three-point attempts. His minimum contract further solidifies his value to the team. Brooks, described as the “engine” of the Suns, has elevated his value through strong performance, particularly in the absence of Booker and Green. While a trade isn’t impossible, it would likely require a significant return – a young star with untapped potential. Brooks Dunn, a sophomore player, is also considered unlikely to be moved, though he could be included as filler in a trade for win-now talent.
Ighodaro has also impressed in his new role, thriving as a backup center and potentially becoming a building block for the future. A player who has yet to see significant playing time is also considered unlikely to be moved, as the Suns want to assess their potential.
Potential Trade Candidates: Most Movable Assets
Finally, several players are identified as potential trade candidates. Hayes-Davis, recently returned to the NBA after success overseas, could be moved to create opportunities for younger players, though his veteran leadership could also be valuable. Allen’s contract, slightly under $17 million annually with increases over the next two years, presents a complex situation. While a solid starter, his value may be higher to the Suns than to other teams. O’Neale, playing exceptionally well, is considered one of the most movable players due to his strong performance, relatively minor contract, and the presence of younger replacements on the roster.
However, the player most likely to be traded is Nick Richards. Acquired last season, Richards has fallen to third in the center rotation with the additions of Williams and Maluach. With a contract of just $5 million, he represents a valuable asset for teams in need of center depth, and his departure could free up cap space for future extensions for Gillespie and Williams.
Ultimately, the final decisions rest with Brian Gregory and Mat Ishbia. “I have no idea if I am right on any of these predictions,” one analyst conceded, “as it is all down to them to determine what this team looks like.” Despite the uncertainty, the Suns’ current success has instilled confidence in their leadership and direction.
