The Phoenix Suns just made some tough calls by waiving Nassir Little and EJ Liddell, trimming their roster from 16 to 14 players. This move not only frees up some space but also opens the door for them to add another free agent on a minimum contract before the season kicks off. Now, with the season just around the corner, the Suns have the opportunity to bolster their lineup with some much-needed depth.
1. Evan Fournier
Evan Fournier has had a rollercoaster of a year in 2024. After a lackluster NBA season with the Detroit Pistons, where he struggled to find his rhythm and ultimately saw his team decline his $19 million option for the 2024-25 season, Fournier has been looking to revive his career. Despite his NBA struggles, Fournier still made a significant impact on the international stage, representing France in the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Although he had a slow start in the tournament, his performance against Japan was a turning point. Fournier managed to shake off early struggles and played a crucial role in securing a win with 14 points, 3 rebounds, and 6 assists, showing flashes of the aggressive play that once made him a valuable asset in the NBA. His experience and leadership were evident, especially as France looked to make a deep run in the tournament. However, questions remain about his consistency and whether he can carry that form back into the NBA.
Fournier is currently a free agent, and while his NBA future is uncertain, his Olympic performance could reignite interest from teams looking for a veteran presence who can contribute off the bench. Given the Suns’ need for depth, Fournier could be a low-risk, high-reward addition if he can bring that Olympic intensity to the regular season.
2. Talen Horton-Tucker
Talen Horton-Tucker’s career has been a bit of a rollercoaster, especially after leaving the Los Angeles Lakers. Last season with the Utah Jazz, he showed flashes of the potential that once made him a highly regarded prospect, particularly in the final weeks of the season where he averaged 12.7 points, 2.3 assists, and 2.1 rebounds per game. However, his inconsistency and struggles with efficiency, especially from beyond the arc where he shot under 30% for the season, have made his future in the NBA uncertain.
As of now, Horton-Tucker remains a free agent with no significant offers on the table. There was some initial interest from the Dallas Mavericks, but they ultimately decided to pursue other options. With most teams having filled their rosters, his best shot at continuing in the NBA might be as a backup guard for a team looking for depth and someone who can occasionally provide a scoring punch off the bench.
If the Phoenix Suns are considering adding a player like Horton-Tucker, they’d be banking on his ability to replicate those flashes of brilliance in a more consistent role. Given the right situation and support, Horton-Tucker could find his footing as a valuable rotational player, but it’s clear he’ll need to prove himself all over again.
3. Markelle Fultz
Markelle Fultz, once a highly touted No. 1 overall pick, has seen his career marred by injuries and inconsistency. After several challenging seasons, including a stint with the Philadelphia 76ers and more recently with the Orlando Magic, Fultz is now facing an uncertain future. In the 2023-24 season, he struggled to maintain a consistent role with the Magic, partly due to the team’s deep rotation of guards. His final season averages of 7.8 points and 2.8 assists per game reflect his limited impact.
As Fultz roams in free agency, the market for him has been surprisingly quiet for one of the best free agents remaining. Teams are wary of his injury history and his ongoing issues with shooting, which have hampered his ability to thrive in the NBA. Despite these concerns, Fultz still possesses valuable skills, particularly as a playmaker and defender. His combination of size, basketball IQ, and defensive abilities could make him a valuable addition to a team looking for depth, particularly in a bench role where he could focus on facilitating and defending.
The challenge for Fultz will be finding a team willing to take a chance on him as he attempts to rebuild his career. Some analysts suggest that his best move might be to accept a minimum contract with a contending team, where he can play a specialized role and work on restoring his value in the league. For that reason, the Phoenix Suns could definitely be an interesting option for him. His playmaking skills, tempo-pushing style, and mature approach to the game could give the team a ton of value at some point.
4. Robert Covington
Robert Covington, now a free agent, could be an ideal fit for the Phoenix Suns as they look to fill their 15th roster spot. Covington’s combination of defensive versatility and three-point shooting makes him a valuable addition to any team, and the Suns could use his skill set to bolster their bench.
Last season, Covington played in just 29 games for the Los Angeles Clippers and Philadelphia 76ers, averaging 16.2 minutes per game—the lowest since his rookie season. Despite the limited playing time, Covington continued to showcase his defensive prowess, a trait that has defined his career. He averaged 4.5 points, 1.4 rebounds, and 1.3 steals per game, which might not jump off the stat sheet, but his impact goes beyond basic statistics. His ability to guard multiple positions and stretch the floor with his three-point shooting (36% from beyond the arc in his career) makes him a valuable role player.
The Suns, who have a roster spot open after waiving Nassir Little and EJ Liddell, could greatly benefit from Covington’s experience and defensive acumen. With Phoenix’s current roster featuring stars like Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal, Covington would not be expected to carry a heavy offensive load. Instead, he could focus on what he does best—locking down perimeter players and providing spacing with his three-point shooting.
Covington’s veteran presence would also be invaluable in the Suns’ locker room. As Phoenix aims for a deep playoff run, having a seasoned player who has been through numerous postseason battles could provide the leadership and stability needed on a championship-contending team.
5. Davis Bertans
Davis Bertans could be a valuable addition to the Phoenix Suns as they look to fill their 15th roster spot before the season starts. The 31-year-old sharpshooter, recently waived by the Charlotte Hornets, remains one of the best available floor-spacing big men on the market. His ability to stretch the floor with his shooting is something that would fit seamlessly into the Suns’ system, particularly with stars like Kevin Durant and Devin Booker demanding so much defensive attention.
Last season, Bertans played for both the Oklahoma City Thunder and Charlotte Hornets, where he averaged 6.7 points per game while shooting 38.0% from three-point range. Throughout his career, he’s been a consistent threat from beyond the arc, boasting a career average of 39.6% from three-point territory. His ability to knock down shots from deep makes him a perfect candidate to play alongside playmakers who can draw defenders and kick the ball out for open looks.
Given that the Suns already have a solid core, Bertans wouldn’t need to carry a heavy load. Instead, he could thrive in a role where his primary responsibility is to provide instant offense off the bench, particularly from the perimeter. This would help the Suns maintain their spacing and keep defenses honest, something crucial in today’s NBA where three-point shooting is a premium
6. Cedi Osman
Cedi Osman could be a key addition for the Phoenix Suns as they seek to fill their final roster spot. Known for his versatility, Osman brings a valuable skill set as a wing player who can shoot from beyond the arc and defend multiple positions. Last season, he averaged 6.8 points per game and shot 38.9% from three-point range, showcasing his ability to contribute consistently off the bench.
The Suns could benefit from Osman’s experience and flexibility. His ability to slot into various lineups would provide Phoenix with additional depth on the wing, a critical area for any team looking to contend in the postseason. Moreover, Osman’s experience playing in high-pressure situations, including the playoffs, would be a valuable asset for a Suns team that is looking to make a deep run.
Osman’s potential fit with the Suns also makes financial sense. Given his current status as a free agent, Phoenix could likely sign him to a team-friendly deal, adding a proven contributor without sacrificing significant cap space. With his combination of shooting, defense, and experience, Osman could be the perfect piece to round out the Suns’ roster for the upcoming season.
7. Doug McDermott
Doug McDermott’s 2023-24 NBA season was a bit of a mixed bag. Despite dealing with a calf injury that sidelined him for a portion of the season with the Spurs and Pacers, he still managed to maintain his reputation as a lethal shooter. Over the course of 65 games, McDermott averaged 5.5 points per game while shooting an impressive 41.5% from three-point range. His ability to stretch the floor remains his most valuable asset, particularly for teams looking to add a reliable shooter off the bench.
The injury did limit his mobility and minutes, but when healthy, McDermott proved he could still be a significant offensive contributor. His performance in the 2023-24 season reflected his typical efficiency, making him an appealing option for teams in need of a veteran shooter who can immediately step in and space the floor.
For the Phoenix Suns, McDermott could be a perfect fit to fill their final roster spot. With the Suns’ emphasis on spacing and three-point shooting, adding a player of McDermott’s caliber would only enhance their offensive versatility. He could provide the necessary depth and experience off the bench, complementing the Suns’ star-studded lineup and helping to sustain their offensive firepower throughout the grueling NBA season.
8. Wesley Matthews
Wesley Matthews might be a bit older now, but he’s still got some game left in him, especially when it comes to defense and hitting the occasional three. Last season with the Atlanta Hawks, he didn’t light up the scoreboard—averaging just 3.1 points and 1.5 rebounds per game—but his value goes beyond the stats. Matthews has always been known for his tough defense and the ability to step up in clutch moments, even if his shooting percentage dipped a bit.
For the Suns, adding a veteran like Matthews could be a smart move. He’d bring some much-needed experience and defensive grit to the bench, which could come in handy during the playoffs. Plus, his leadership could be great for the younger guys on the team. Considering he’s probably available for a minimum contract, Matthews could be a low-risk, high-reward pickup as Phoenix looks to round out their roster for a title run.
9. Justin Holiday
Justin Holiday is one of those seasoned vets who could quietly be a solid pickup for a team like the Phoenix Suns. Last season, he played for the Denver Nuggets, where he averaged 4.0 points, 1.2 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game while shooting 36.1% from three-point range. While these numbers aren’t eye-popping, Holiday’s value lies in his versatility and experience. He’s a classic “3-and-D” player who can knock down open shots and hold his own defensively against wings and guards.
At this point in his career, Holiday’s best role is as a reliable bench piece who can provide spot minutes when needed, particularly in high-leverage situations like the playoffs. His experience in various playoff runs, including his time with the Nuggets, gives him a level of poise and reliability that younger players might lack. Plus, his ability to fit seamlessly into different lineups makes him an asset for any team looking to add depth without breaking the bank
For the Suns, who are looking to make a deep postseason run, adding a player like Holiday on a veteran minimum contract could be a low-risk move with a decent upside. He could slot in as a role player who brings defense, shooting, and a steady veteran presence to a team with championship aspirations.
10. Jae Crowder
Jae Crowder remains a solid veteran option in free agency, particularly for a team like the Phoenix Suns, where he’s had success before. Last season, Crowder played for the Milwaukee Bucks, where he averaged 6.2 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game, shooting 42.2% from the field. While his numbers weren’t as high as in his prime, Crowder still brings a ton of value with his defensive toughness and ability to hit crucial three-pointers.
Crowder’s familiarity with the Suns’ system is a big plus. He was a key contributor during Phoenix’s run to the NBA Finals in 2021, providing perimeter defense and timely shooting. His ability to guard multiple positions and knock down threes in high-pressure situations makes him an attractive low-risk addition for the Suns as they round out their roster.
Given that the Suns are aiming for a championship run, bringing back a player like Crowder could add depth and experience to their bench, especially in critical playoff moments. If Phoenix can sign him to a team-friendly deal, Crowder could be an essential piece in their pursuit of another deep postseason run.
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