The Phoenix Suns are at a crossroads. After starting the season 8-1 and looking like a Western Conference powerhouse, they’ve tumbled to a 21-21 record, clinging to the 10th spot in the West standings. With their championship aspirations fading fast, the Feb. 6 NBA trade deadline could be the team’s last chance to salvage the season.
Already, Phoenix has made moves to shake things up. Bradley Beal was recently moved to the bench by head coach Mike Budenholzer, a decision that’s improved his individual production but hasn’t fixed the team’s overall issues. The Suns also bolstered their center rotation by acquiring Nick Richards from the Charlotte Hornets, but the bigger fixes remain unresolved.
Now, all eyes are on a potential blockbuster deal. While the Suns have been linked to Jimmy Butler, the logistics of trading for the Miami Heat star—combined with the Heat’s disinterest in Beal’s massive contract—have forced Phoenix to consider other options. Enter the Chicago Bulls and two intriguing trade targets: Zach LaVine and Patrick Williams.
Proposed Trade Details
- Suns Receive: Zach LaVine, Patrick Williams
- Bulls Receive: Bradley Beal, Jusuf Nurkić
Why the Suns Would Make This Move
1. Zach LaVine’s Scoring Prowess
LaVine is having another excellent season, averaging 24.0 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.4 assists, while shooting a scorching 45.0% from three-point range. His ability to create his own shot and stretch the floor would pair seamlessly with Kevin Durant and Devin Booker, reducing the scoring burden on the Suns’ two stars. Unlike Beal, who has struggled to find his rhythm in Phoenix, LaVine’s style of play offers immediate synergy with the Suns’ offense.
2. Adding Youth and Potential in Patrick Williams
At just 23 years old, Williams has struggled to meet expectations since being the fourth overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, but he still has untapped potential. As a versatile forward with defensive upside, he could thrive in a new environment surrounded by stars like Durant and Booker. The Suns could develop him into a key contributor on both ends of the floor.
3. Cap Relief
This trade would free up over $7 million in cap space, giving Phoenix some much-needed flexibility. By offloading Beal’s massive contract, the Suns could create room for future roster improvements, whether at the deadline or in the offseason.
Why the Bulls Would Consider This Deal
1. A Star for a Rebuild
If the Bulls are truly committed to rebuilding, acquiring Beal—a proven All-Star with a high ceiling—could help stabilize their lineup as they transition. Though his contract is hefty, Beal could serve as a veteran leader to mentor younger players like Coby White and Ayo Dosunmu.
2. Moving on from LaVine and Williams
Chicago has openly explored the trade market for LaVine this season, signaling a willingness to pivot. Pairing LaVine’s departure with Williams’ move allows the Bulls to reset while acquiring a more experienced scorer in Beal and a solid veteran center in Nurkić, who could replace Nikola Vučević if he’s traded.
How This Trade Helps Phoenix Compete Now
- Balanced Offense: LaVine would add another dynamic scorer to Phoenix’s starting lineup, giving defenses nightmares alongside Durant and Booker.
- Defensive Versatility: Williams provides the Suns with a strong, switchable defender, something they’ve lacked on the wing.
- Roster Flexibility: Clearing cap space allows the Suns to remain active in the market for additional depth pieces.
Suns’ Potential Lineup Post-Trade
- PG: Devin Booker
- SG: Zach LaVine
- SF: Kevin Durant
- PF: Patrick Williams
- C: Nick Richards
This lineup would give the Suns a mix of elite scoring, youth, and defensive versatility—key ingredients for making a deep playoff run in a highly competitive Western Conference.
Final Thoughts
While this trade wouldn’t instantly solve all of Phoenix’s problems, it addresses their most pressing needs: scoring depth, defensive versatility, and cap flexibility. With time running out and the trade deadline looming, the Suns must decide if they’re willing to shake up their roster and gamble on a star like Zach LaVine to reignite their season.
