The Phoenix Suns only have one goal this year and that is to lift the Larry O’Brien trophy in June. They are in a prime position to do just that with the way they are dominating with a 46-10 record heading to the All-Star break.
The Suns made two lowkey good moves prior to the trade deadline to beef up their roster. They re-acquired Torrey Craig for added wing depth and traded for Aaron Holiday as another option at the guard position.
Phoenix is likely not done tinkering with the lineup and could look to the buyout market to add more pieces.
Suns Buyout Candidates
3. James Johnson
The Suns already have good depth at center with JaVale McGee and Bismack Biyombo backing up Deandre Ayton. Still, they could use another one as a small-ball five. Johnson could fill that role, should the Brooklyn Nets buy him out.
The Nets traded James Harden and Paul Millsap prior to the deadline and acquired Ben Simmons, Seth Curry, and Andre Drummond. By bringing in three players, they will need to free up a roster spot and it’s possible that Johnson could be the one to go.
The Suns should consider picking him up if he winds up being available in the market. Johnson likely won’t crack the postseason rotation, but his presence at least gives Phoenix the option to go small should the need arise. He’s only 6-foot-7 but his strength and toughness make him a viable option at center.
On the season, the 34-year-old Johnson is averaging 5.8 points and 3.8 rebounds in 41 games.
2. Terrence Ross
The Suns already have a well-rounded depth at the guard/wings, but who wouldn’t welcome another microwave scorer off the bench like Ross?
The Orlando Magic will likely shift their attention to playing their younger talents more, thus, Ross could find himself on the waivers, should both sides agree on a buyout. At 31 years old, the 6-foot-6 wing will want to be in a winning situation. Phoenix should be one of his top options if he wants a chance to win an NBA championship.
The Suns already have solid scorers in Cameron Payne, Cameron Johnson, and Landry Shamet off the bench. Nonetheless, Ross’ shot-making ability could add another dynamic to their second unit offense.
In 49 games this season, Ross is averaging 10.9 points in 24.4 minutes off the bench.
1. Gary Harris
Harris is another Magic player that could be bought out, and the Suns should immediately pounce to pick him up should he become available.
At 27 years old, Harris is still capable of being a solid contributor on a playoff team. Just a couple of seasons ago, Harris was a player that started for the Denver Nuggets and helped them make the Western Conference Finals.
While his production and shooting efficiency have waned off over the years, the 6-foot-4 guard is still a terrific 3-and-D option, especially off the bench. The Suns could also use a defensive-minded player in their second unit backcourt and Harris fits the bill with his energy and tenacity on that end of the floor.
On the season, Harris is averaging 11.4 points while shooting 44.0% from the field and 38.1% from long distance.
