Suns Reportedly to 'Move Away' From Star-Based Roster Moves, Eye Defensive Toughness

After finishing with the third-worst defensive rating in the NBA this season, the Phoenix Suns' priority this offseason is to get tougher on that end of the court.

On the latest episode of his YouTube show (starts at 2:28 mark), NBA insider Chris Haynes explained the Suns intend to "move away" from trying to build around a couple of stars to having more "defensive-minded" and "tough" players that allows them to be more physical.

The Suns are going to be one of the most fascinating teams to watch this summer. ESPN's Shams Charania reported in the wake of Mike Budenholzer's firing that the organization will engage in trade talks involving Kevin Durant and they will work with his representatives to find a landing spot.

Charania also noted the Suns will have discussions about Bradley Beal's future, but that situation is complicated by his full no-trade clause. He is also owed $53.7 million next season and has a player option worth $57.1 million in 2026-27.

One thing the Suns have made clear publicly is they have no intention of trading Devin Booker. He would almost certainly bring back the biggest return in a deal, but it's also hard for most teams to trade a four-time All-Star still in the prime of his career.

Of course, the big complicating factor for the Suns is money. ESPN's Bobby Marks noted they are currently projected to be $25 million over the second apron going into next season, so they are unable to aggregate contracts to facilitate a trade.

Marks did add the Suns can clear around $100 million in payroll and tax payment if they decline Vasilije Micić's $8.1 million team option and waive Cody Martin before his $8.7 million salary before it becomes fully guaranteed on June 30.

The restrictions are less prohibitive for teams in the first apron compared to the second apron, but it's still not great for an organization like the Suns that has so many areas to improve upon.

This doesn't take into account that Phoenix will be hiring its fourth different head coach in four years. Budenholzer and Frank Vogel both lasted just one season. Monty Williams was fired in May 2023 after losing to the Denver Nuggets in the playoffs.

Taking a step back from trying to win the headlines with star talent is a good start for the Suns in their attempt to rebuild. It may not produce great results for them next season, but a win would be them looking like a team making progress back to where they were four years ago as an NBA Finals team.