The Phoenix Suns are currently battling it out with the Golden State Warriors to stake claim to who is the best team currently in the NBA. They are neck and neck in the Western Conference standings, splitting their two matchups thus far this season.
After making a surprise run to the NBA Finals at the conclusion of the 2020-21 season, the Suns are looking to cement themselves as legitimate contenders, not just one-hit-wonders. They have done an excellent job of that thus far this season, but their job is far from done.
Phoenix has a deep and talented roster but could use some tweaks to add depth at a few spots on the roster. The frontcourt is where they were looking to add some players during the offseason.
JaVale McGee was signed in free agency and has done an excellent job backing up Deandre Ayton. Frank Kaminsky was re-signed as well but has appeared in only nine games. With Dario Saric likely sidelined for the season after tearing his ACL in the NBA Finals, the team may be in the market for another power forward or center.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: This Kings-Suns Trade Lands Marvin Bagley III In Phoenix
Phoenix didn’t really replace Saric in free agency as they were hopeful that Jalen Smith, the No. 10 overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, would be ready to take on a bigger role. That wasn’t the case, as the Phoenix Suns declined his third-year option.
Preparing to head into free agency much sooner than anticipated, Smith will likely be looking for a new team come the offseason. However, he could be boosting his value with a different organization sooner than later.
According to The Athletic, a paid-prescription website, Smith is generating a lot of interest from opposing teams despite having his option declined.
“Despite declining his third-year option, the Suns have had interest generate in talks to move center Jalen Smith, sources said. But interested teams expect a potential move for Smith as the Dec. 15 date — when most offseason signings can be traded — nears.”
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: This Kings-Suns Trade Lands Marvin Bagley III In Phoenix
Smith is someone that a rebuilding team looking to move a veteran could be interested in. He showed an intriguing skill set while playing collegiately at Maryland as he was a great rim protector on defense with range out to the 3-point line on offense.
There are certainly some teams around the league that will take a shot on a lottery pick with the skill set that Jalen Smith has. Acquiring him via trade this season would give that team a chance to evaluate him and see his development first-hand before committing any long-term money.
