Following Kevin Durant‘s transfer to the Houston Rockets, much speculation has emerged regarding Devin Booker‘s continued role with the Phoenix Suns. Booker remains the Suns’ premier asset capable of steering the team through a rebuild or trade scenario, yet he appears set on staying. The Suns acquired Jalen Green along with multiple second-round draft picks and Dillon Brooks in return for Durant, shaping the team’s future direction.

Despite the influx of second-round selections, these picks are unlikely to transform the roster substantially. Phoenix plans to maintain its promising young talents, including Jalen Green and Dillon Brooks, signaling a preference for continuity. Suns insider John Gambadoro has shared that Devin Booker intends to remain loyal to Phoenix and continue as a one-team player amid uncertainties about the franchise’s competitiveness.

Booker has been the cornerstone of the Suns since his debut, though last season saw a slight dip in scoring with an average of 25.6 points per game. Conversely, he achieved a career-best 7.1 assists across 75 games, underscoring his evolving playmaking skills. With Durant no longer on the roster, offensive responsibilities will largely fall on Booker, especially as the team explores options with Bradley Beal’s potentially shifting role following Green’s arrival.

Confidence in Devin Booker and Jalen Green’s Backcourt Partnership

There were initial doubts about how Jalen Green would fit alongside Booker in the Suns’ backcourt, but the franchise remains confident in the new pairing. Green, the former No. 2 overall pick, is expected to stay with Phoenix and fill the shooting guard position previously occupied by Bradley Beal. Meanwhile, Booker is projected to take on more point guard duties, managing the offense with greater control.

Last season, Green posted averages of 21.0 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game while shooting an efficient 42.3% from the field, including 35.4% from beyond the arc. He was Houston’s top perimeter threat. Pairing with Booker will likely ease defensive pressure on Green, as opposing teams must still contend with Booker’s elite scoring presence.

This backcourt configuration allows Green to capitalize on his ability to play off the ball, facilitating an easier transition and greater offensive versatility for the Suns. The complementing skills of Booker and Green could enhance Phoenix’s offensive dynamics moving forward.

Challenges Surrounding Bradley Beal’s Contract Situation

The Suns face difficulties in managing Bradley Beal’s contract, largely due to his no-trade clause, which has so far prevented the team from moving him elsewhere. Financially, Beal carries a significant salary cap burden with $53.6 million owed for the upcoming season and $57.1 million for 2026-27, complicating Phoenix’s roster flexibility.

Resolving Beal’s contract situation remains a priority for the Suns if they aim to optimize their lineup around Booker and Green. Finding a viable trade partner or pursuing a buyout option could free up critical resources as the team rebuilds after the Durant trade.

With Devin Booker reaffirming his commitment and Jalen Green joining the fold, the Suns are charting a course centered on their backcourt’s potential while navigating financial and roster challenges. Their ability to align these pieces will significantly impact Phoenix’s competitive outlook in the seasons ahead.