Phoenix Suns Season Preview
Re-signed: Bol Bol, Damion Lee, Josh Okogie, Royce O’Neale
Additions: Coach Mike Budenholzer, Tyus Jones (free agent), E.J. Liddell (free agent), Monte Morris (free agent), Mason Plumlee (free agent)
Draft Picks: Ryan Dunn, Oso Ighodaro
Departures: Coach Frank Vogel, Drew Eubanks (to Jazz), Eric Gordon (to 76ers), David Roddy (to Hawks)
Unsigned Free Agents: Udoka Azubuike, Saben Lee, Isaiah Thomas, Ish Wainright, Thaddeus Young
Last Season Recap
Despite having one of the priciest and most talented trios in the NBA—Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal—the Phoenix Suns fell short of expectations. The lack of depth and defensive struggles prevented them from reaching 50 wins, and they were swept in the first round of the playoffs by the Minnesota Timberwolves. Durant and Booker played well, each averaging over 27 points per game, but Beal struggled with injuries and inefficiency, leaving the Suns without the cohesion they needed to contend for a championship.
Summer Summary
Phoenix made a major change on the sidelines by replacing Frank Vogel with Mike Budenholzer, a coach with championship experience but a different philosophy, particularly on offense. Vogel, known for his defense-first approach, was dismissed after the Suns’ defensive collapse. Budenholzer, who previously won a championship with the Milwaukee Bucks, is now tasked with getting the most out of this star-studded roster.
Cap restrictions limited the Suns’ ability to make splashy moves, but they did add key veterans on budget-friendly deals. Tyus Jones, a skilled and steady point guard, was arguably the most crucial addition, filling a major need for a playmaker to relieve Booker of those duties. Jones averaged 12 points and 7.3 assists per game last season with the Wizards. Monte Morris and Mason Plumlee were also solid veteran signings, adding depth in the backcourt and frontcourt, respectively. Royce O’Neale was re-signed to continue providing 3-and-D skills on the wing.
Player Spotlight: Tyus Jones
The acquisition of Tyus Jones is pivotal for the Suns. Last season, Devin Booker was forced into a playmaking role, but that’s not where he’s most effective. Jones, known for his high basketball IQ and steady hand as a facilitator, will be responsible for running the offense and creating easier opportunities for the Suns’ trio of stars. In a season where Phoenix has championship aspirations, Jones’ ability to manage the offense will be critical.
Season Outlook
The Suns are again heavily reliant on their big three—Durant, Booker, and Beal—to carry them through the season. If these stars stay healthy and deliver as expected, Phoenix will be in the mix as one of the top contenders in the Western Conference. Both Durant and Booker are still playing at an All-NBA level, and Beal will need to bounce back to complete the trio’s potential dominance.
The depth added in the offseason should alleviate some pressure, but the talent gap beyond the three stars is noticeable. Coach Budenholzer’s ability to integrate new role players like Jones, Morris, and Plumlee while tightening up the defense will be a key factor in determining how far the Suns can go. This season could serve as a litmus test for the viability of “super-teams” in the modern NBA, as Phoenix tries to prove that star power can still win in a league where depth and balance have become more valued.
