Path forward for Suns

[Crow]

Suns have a decent 7 man group. 6 if Saric is not retained. Beyond that they are weak and should seek replacements everywhere. Maybe some development occurs but that would not in my opinion be a sufficient plan.

Biggest needs are a bigger star than Booker, a better backup PG and a better backup Center.

I doubt they can get much for their bench pieces but got to try to find somethings at least a little better. Would not re-sign guys in this group unless super cheap and after striking out elsewhere.

Okongwu should get serious attention in draft if he slips or possibly in a trade up. If Vassell is still available he would be a fine choice. Not a PG or C but a solid piece, who I think has a chance to be more than that. Not sure who the right PG option is at moment but I'd probably trade down for one and something else instead of trading up. Or via trade / free agency.

For free agent centers, they should consider if Poltl is worth it for them (probably not). Kanter vs. just retaining Kaminsky? I'd have to think more on that. Tony Bradley is worth studying for a possible trade gamble. No more Baynes.

Too soon to move on from Monty Williams but there are many areas where he needs to deliver improvement in next year or two- pretty much everywhere but own ft rate, steaks and defensive rebounding. This may be a sought after position in near future if they can improve depth and / or attract another star.

A lot depends of development of Cam Johnson. Focus on him next season.

More Saric? Not for big money. Medium money?Maybe. See what PF/Cs can be gotten for similar or less money. Wood, Boucher, etc.

[eminence]

I think the Suns have done a pretty solid job recently, solid amount of young talent. Probably let Dario go, certainly don't spend substantially. I'd shy away from centers in the draft, I don't see one that pairs well with Ayton long-term. I haven't followed where most guys might go in the draft, Haliburton is interesting to grow into Rubio's role, I like Vassell/Green on the wing. Maybe Toppin?

Overall I'd try to avoid rocking the boat too much, let the core young guys (Ayton/Booker/Bridges/Oubre/Johnson in that order imo) grow a bit under Rubio's tutelage, see if you can be a fringe playoff team next season. Be willing to walk away from Oubre if he doesn't continue to show growth next season, can't afford to offer him big long-term money if he's not producing at near low all-star level.

I don't have anyone in particular in mind, but serviceable backup PG/C seem like the the FA targets.

[Crow]

Cam Johnson played about 1000 minutes but not even 36 minutes with his biggest 5 man lineup. Absurd chaos. Just 200 minutes with Ayton and -8 pts / 100 possessions. Got to figure that out. Pretty clear he should not play with Oubre.

Rubio Booker Bridges Johnson Ayton was +15 pts / 100 possessions... in 34 minutes. Should have more like 340 minutes. Might should be / become the starting lineup next season.

[Crow]

Suns do look better 2-3 months later. Should compete for 8th seed but it is going to be a fight.