The Phoenix Suns had an interesting season in 2021-22. On one hand, it was a massive success as they had an NBA-best 64-18 record and a dominant regular season. On the other, they were blown out by 33 points by the Dallas Mavericks in Game 7 of the Western Conference Semifinals on their home court.
This type of embarrassing effort overshadows what was otherwise an impressive season and indicates there is a need for a roster shakeup. While the biggest story of the Suns' offseason surrounds what happens with restricted free agent Deandre Ayton, there is plenty of work to do regardless of whether he stays or goes. There is a lot of smoke about Ayton leaving, but Phoenix does have the ability to match an offer sheet.
Aside from Ayton, here are three names to keep an eye on for the Suns in 2022 NBA free agency.
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Suns 2022 NBA Free Agency Targets
A 6'7″ forward who has bounced around the NBA, Taurean Prince plays a hard-nosed style of basketball that would fit nicely on the Suns. Prince is several seasons removed from his best years in Atlanta but is only 28 years old. Last season with the Minnesota Timberwolves, he averaged 7.3 points, 2.5 rebounds, and an assist. Prince also shot 37.6% on 3-point attempts while launching 3.3 attempts per game.
The Baylor product would provide some nice depth at wing, and he possesses the ability to serve as a small-ball big-man. Prince would make a terrific duo alongside Jae Crowder or would serve as a replacement if Crowder is traded this offseason as rumors indicate. The Suns must take a major stride into changing the identity of the team in a short amount of time. With Chris Paul entering next season at 37 years old, the clock is certainly ticking on his ability to play a major role on a championship team.
2. Kevon Looney
With all signs pointing to Deandre Ayton leaving, adding a proper big man is crucial for the Suns. The wedge between Ayton and the organization seemed to be driven by the former No. 1 overall pick's desire for more time with the ball in his hands, as well as a demand for a full max contract. With Ayton possibly out the door, the Suns would be wise to find a better-fitting stylistic replacement. One guy who would make a great deal of sense is Kevon Looney.
The best word to describe the champion is solid. Looney knows what his role is on the team and does it at a high level. Looney played a crucial role in the Warriors' championship run this year, as has been the case over the past few seasons. During this postseason, Looney averaged 5.8 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 2.2 assists in his 20.4 minutes per game of play.
Looney is a terrific rebounder who is content kicking it out to keep possessions alive. He is a high-IQ basketball player and is not fazed by being the fifth option on the floor. The UCLA product would make an excellent fifth starter and be able to do the things Ayton was good at without the desire for more. He makes up for the lack of athleticism with his effort and IQ and would be a great addition to the Suns.
1. Mo Bamba
The Orlando Magic have created a logjam of big men that is seemingly forcing Mo Bamba out the door. The Texas product has freakish length, which helps make him effective as a lob threat and shot blocker. Bamba stands 7'1″ with a 7'10” wingspan. He has made some gradual improvements each season, with the last undoubtedly being his most impressive campaign. In 25.7 minutes per game, Bamba notched 10.6 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks per game. The fourth-year big man also shot a career-high 38.1% on 3-point attempts while launching 4.0 attempts per game.
At 24 years old, there is still a lot of growth left on the table for Mo Bamba, and he is another suitable option to replace Ayton if he leaves. Bamba can effectively produce as a screener and lob threat while providing floor spacing and improved rim protection. Bamba may be a step back in terms of talent, but the seamless fit within the team would make it a worthwhile upgrade. Allowing the former Magic big man to begin growing alongside Devin Booker and the rest of the roster could open up even more untapped potential for the big man.
There are some players who are able to reach new potential with a new location. Given the flashes of impressive play that Mo Bamba has shown in his young career, this would be a worthwhile gamble for Phoenix. Mo Bamba would be an excellent replacement for Deandre Ayton and should be their No. 1 free agent target this offseason.
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