The Phoenix Suns have built two strong championship-contending teams this decade, yet Devin Booker stands as the only remaining player from both lineups. Initially paired with Chris Paul, Deandre Ayton, and Mikal Bridges, Booker later played alongside Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal. While neither group secured an NBA title, the first reached the Finals in 2021, highlighting Booker’s ability to lead a team to the highest level when supported properly.
Recognizing this, Phoenix’s management solidified Booker’s role with a recent contract extension; however, the team still lacks a dependable second star since Durant and Beal’s departure.
Could Another High-Caliber Guard Join Booker in Phoenix?
Bradley Beal’s time with the Suns included some solid numbers, but his expensive contract and struggles with consistency, defense, and playmaking raised doubts about his fit. Analyst Brandon Austin from PFSN suggests the Suns might pursue a different All-Star guard to complement Booker: Atlanta Hawks’ Trae Young. Young offers strong playmaking abilities and durability but also presents defensive challenges.
The Hawks reshaped their roster this offseason by trading for Kristaps Porzingis, signing Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Luke Kennard, and drafting forward Asa Newell,
Austin explained.
These moves point to a shift toward more balanced play and spacing around Young.
This makes the possibility of trading Young surprising because Atlanta has made multiple additions signaling their intent to compete with him leading the team. At 26, Young recently averaged 24.2 points and 11.6 assists per game, with 41.1% shooting overall and 34% from beyond the arc.
However, the additions also complicate future salary distribution and team direction. If Atlanta is unsure about a max extension, exploring trade options now could help avoid losing Young for nothing,
Austin noted.
Trade Considerations and Potential Impact on the Suns
Acquiring Young would represent a lower-risk scenario than the Beal deal for Phoenix. Young’s current contract includes only one guaranteed season left on a five-year, $207 million deal signed in 2021. This structure allows Phoenix flexibility to decline his player option or trade him on an expiring contract during the 2026-2027 season if the pairing with Booker fails.
Although the trade rumors have merit, they may be unlikely given Atlanta’s strong intent to remain competitive in the Eastern Conference. Still, Phoenix’s history in the 2020s shows a willingness to trade significant assets to push for a championship, underscoring how the Devin Booker Suns All-Star trade scenario remains a topic of interest for fans and analysts monitoring the team’s title ambitions.