The Phoenix Suns are in a tricky spot. They need to move up in the draft, but the 2026 NBA Draft is a deep one, and many teams are looking to keep their picks. So, how can the Suns make a move? Here are five trades that could get them into the first round, each with its own unique twist and commentary.
Trading for a First-Round Pick
One of the most straightforward ways for the Suns to move up is to trade for a first-round pick. The most obvious target is the Oklahoma City Thunder, who have a deep roster and a pick in the first round. However, this trade would require the Suns to give up a valuable asset, like the 2033 first-round pick, which is currently a lottery pick. The question is, is it worth it? The Thunder have a young core that could still be in contention in a few years, so they have future flexibility. For the Suns, this trade only makes sense if they can find a player at #17 who can become a star. Otherwise, it might push them further away from a championship.
Swapping Jalen Green for PJ Washington
The Dallas Mavericks are in a rebuilding phase, and they need young talent around Cooper Flagg. Jalen Green could be a solid third option for them, and they also get a future first-round pick. The Suns give up a lot in this deal, including some of their best assets, but they get two first-round picks in return. The big prize here is PJ Washington, who can start at Power Forward for the Suns. However, this trade makes more sense for Dallas, as they need a player who fits the Luka Doncic timeline, not the Cooper Flagg one. Klay Thompson is just a salary filler in this deal.
Getting Under the Second Apron
The Cleveland Cavaliers are looking to get under the second apron, and they can help the Suns do the same. By shedding the 5.8 million dollar difference in salaries between Royce O'Neale and Max Strus, the Cavs can get under the 2nd apron. In exchange, the Suns get the 29th pick in the draft. This deal makes sense for both teams, as it helps them without requiring much give-and-take. It's a win-win situation, and it's my favorite trade on this list for its sheer cogency.
Bringing Cameron Johnson Home
The Suns could trade for Cameron Johnson, who has had a rough go of it in Denver. Grayson Allen has lived up to his contract and is a better player than Johnson. Ryan Dunn is thrown into the trade to make the salaries work and to hopefully bring enough value to bring in a second-round pick. For the Suns, this helps clean up the shooting guard logjam and brings in the first-round pick they are hunting for. It's a risky move, but it could pay off if Johnson can find his form again in Phoenix.
Trading Up in the Second Round
If the Suns can't move into the first round, they might consider trading up in the second round. The difference between pick 31 and pick 30 might not be significant, but it could be the difference between a good player and a great one. The Suns have done this before, trading up for Rasheer Fleming last season. If they can't move into the first round, they will be aggressive if there is someone they like at the top of the second round. It's a risky move, but it could pay off if they can find the right player.
In my opinion, the Suns need to be aggressive in the draft if they want to improve their chances of winning a championship. These trades are risky, but they could pay off if the Suns can find the right players. What do you think, Suns fans? Do you like any of these trades? Do you want Brian Gregory and Mat Ishbia to stay put at 47? Let us know in the comments below!
