Grading the Trade for the Phoenix Suns
The clear benefit of the Phoenix Suns executing this trade for Chris Paul is that it gives Devin Booker a star backcourt talent to play alongside. Coming off an All-NBA Second-Team season, Paul will bring a considerable boost to a team full of youth.
Booker will be able to get the ball in his favorite spots on the court without having to worry about running the half-court offense. Meanwhile, Deandre Ayton will thrive as the roll man in screen-and-roll situations with two high-level ball handlers— bringing the best out of the former No. 1 overall pick.
Not having to give up Mikal Bridges, Cam Johnson, or the No. 10 pick in the 2020 NBA Draft is a real plus for the Suns in this trade. Phoenix is in a position to still add an intriguing prospect to an already intriguing core group of players.
The only knock on this trade is simply Paul’s age. As a small guard, he’s already 35-years-old, so that’s at least something to watch. It’s not too big of a detracting factor when considering he’s only under contract through the 2021-22 NBA season.
Grade: A-