The Phoenix Suns weren’t entirely inactive around the trade deadline, but despite adding guard depth with the acquisition of Tyler Johnson, the team still isn’t where they want to be. While Johnson adds a little beef to their rotation, Phoenix GM James Jones has made it clear that they still feel in need of a long-term solution at the point guard spot to pair with Devin Booker and DeAndre Ayton. Duane Rankin, who covers the Suns for AZCentral.com, delivered this insight from the Phoenix front office:

The last part of that tweet is very telling of the Suns’ decision-making process over the next few months. Headed for the top of the draft lottery, Phoenix could find themselves taking a player like Duke’s R.J. Barrett, who has shown ability to be the initiator of an offense despite his size, over someone like Ja Morant, who is a more traditional point guard.

There is the possibility that they choose to opt for a more experienced player in favor of a rookie, though. They will definitely be taking swings at big names in the free agent market come July. Players like Kemba Walker or D’Angelo Russell can probably expect heavy interest from the Suns, as well as less flashy options, like Patrick Beverly, Emmanuel Mudiay, and T.J. McConnell. A player like Tyreke Evans would fit the bill of a nontraditional point somewhat similar to the types mentioned by Jones if the team seeks to go that route.

In the meantime, there will be plenty of free agents on the buyout market that Phoenix could explore and experiment with.