In a blockbuster deal completed recently, the Suns traded Grayson Allen, Royce O’Neal, and a future first-round pick to the Charlotte Hornets in exchange for Miles Bridges and a pair of draft selections. With Allen now out of the rotation, Phoenix faces the task of replacing his outside shooting and floor-spacing ability. As free agency opens, teams frequently weigh multiple targets, and the Suns are no exception, assessing several guards who could fit their needs and budget.
Suns scouts and front-office discussions have highlighted a core plan: pursue a fourth guard who can provide reliable 3-and-D potential, while keeping total spending within a realistic range. The team is rumored to have roughly a mid-level exception available to allocate, which gives them a pathway to sign a solid veteran guard without overextending the payroll. While deals at the higher end of the market are possible, the Suns are viewed as aiming for affordable, productive contributors who can immediately impact the rotation.
Among the names that have been associated with the Suns in discussions are guards known for their shooting touch and versatility. A number of these players bring established track records of strong 3-point accuracy, which would help the Suns maintain spacing around stars like Devin Booker and Miles Bridges. The front office is said to be evaluating a mix of established veterans who can step in and contribute right away, as well as younger guards who might offer upside at a reasonable price.
The emphasis on shooting makes sense given what the Suns lost in the trades: high-volume 3-point duty from players who previously provided reliable long-range scoring. Replacing this production is a priority, and landing a guard who can knock down shots from beyond the arc would significantly help Phoenix’s offensive ceiling. In addition to shooting, teams often value guard who can defend multiple positions, handle some playmaking responsibilities, and maintain pace with the league’s shifting style.
The Suns had a respectable season, earning a playoff berth with a 45-37 record and showing resilience after the midseason alterations to the roster. With Devin Booker continuing to pursue his first NBA Championship, the front office will likely pursue every available avenue this offseason to upgrade the roster and deepen the rotation. Adding another guard who can contribute immediately would not only address the current gap but also provide insurance for injuries and strategic versatility during the grueling regular season and potential playoff run.
As free agency progresses, the Suns’ plan remains clear: strengthen guard depth with a shooter who can stretch the floor, preserve spacing, and contribute in moments that demand outside shooting. If the team can finalize a favorable deal within their budget, they could add a player who fits seamlessly into their system and helps maintain their competitive trajectory in the Western Conference.
Key takeaway: Phoenix is prioritizing guard depth and perimeter shooting this offseason, weighing several capable guards who can fit within their financial framework and deliver immediate impact. The goal is to replace the lost shooting from Allen and O’Neal and to sustain the progression the team showed last season, all while pursuing continued success for a roster led by standout players and a driven core.
