Phoenix Suns
The Suns are on an unexpected hot streak following Devin Booker’s return to full health. It’s been largely sparked by the younger players, who bring more energy than, say, the mentally-checked-out Trevor Ariza.
Using Booker at point guard has worked for the most part, while De’Anthony Melton continues to prove his worth as a late second-round pick. The Suns also have the least apparent interest in Fultz, which doesn’t make sense, but their ownership situation seldom does.
Here’s what a deal might look like.
The Suns lack ready-made contributors, which makes the logistics a bit odd on Philadelphia’s end. The front office reportedly wants a generous first-round pick, though, and it seems natural for those demands to loosen once Fultz returns (barring immediate, undeniable improvement, which would probably make the Sixers want to hang onto Fultz).
Phoenix makes a smart move, though, burning a late pick and some solid prospects on a former No. 1 pick who, at his peak, could launch their rebuild to the next level. Fultz brings definite risk, but the Suns are well-positioned to take those risks.
In Bender, the Sixers get a one-year flier on a former top-five pick. Melton could (and should) play minutes right away, though Brett Brown might not think the same way. Picks are always nice.