Why This Trade Makes Sense For The Phoenix Suns

If the Suns kept their current roster, they would likely end up being the 4, 5 or 6-seed come playoff time in the Western Conference. If they were to acquire John Collins in this trade outlined above, then the Suns could ultimately contend for a Top-3 seed in the West. 

Devin Booker is one of the best offensive players in the NBA, Chris Paul is the best leader in the league and DeAndre Ayton is one of the better rebounders in the NBA. With this trio playing at a high-level and adding another big-time talent in Collins, there are no limits to what this team could achieve. 

Not to mention, they would keep most of their depth in this trade, as Mikal Bridges, Abdel Nader and Dario Saric will be huge role players down the stretch for Phoenix. Giving up Jalen Smith and Cameron Johnson for John Collins is definitely a major upgrade for the Suns frontcourt, giving them one of the better frontcourts in the Western Conference. 

There is no question that the Suns are a contending team in the Western Conference, which is exactly why they should be looking to “buy” at the NBA trade deadline this season. If he becomes available, John Collins should be at the top of their list in terms of trade targets because of what he brings to the table. 

If the Suns are truly going to compete with NBA title contending teams like the Lakers, Clippers and Jazz at the top of the Western Conference, then they are going to have to be willing to make some moves and trade away some of their younger talents. This team has a chance to win now with Devin Booker and Chris Paul, so they should be willing to trade away anyone besides their “Big 3” to do so.