Why The Phoenix Suns Do The Deal 

The Suns do this deal with Father TIme’s advances on the forefront of their minds. For them, this is about getting something for Paul before it’s too late. 

Miami’s 2023 first-round pick is probably enough value for a 37-year-old. This isn’t a rebuilding measure for the Suns. The aim is simply to retool. 

Luckily, the Suns have ample time to do so. Looking at this core does not inspire a sense of urgency. Devin Booker is 25, Deandre Ayton is 24, and Mikal Bridges is 26. If they fall short of the lofty standard they’ve set for themselves in recent years in 2022-23, the sky won’t fall in Phoenix. 

Realistically, given the discrepancy between the core’s age and Paul’s, the Suns may be better off by ripping this bandaid now. They can’t rely on Paul forever, or even much longer – this young core has to learn to win without him.

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Chris Paul, Phoenix Suns & Miami Heat Updates

Lowry will still contribute floor spacing and defense, but he won’t provide the same volume of playmaking that Paul has: especially if his 2021-22 postseason performance is any indication. 

On the other hand, Paul wasn’t particularly impressive in last year’s playoffs either. Should the Heat really surrender an asset for him?