The Phoenix Suns face significant challenges in improving their roster this offseason. General Manager James Jones has confirmed that Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, and Bradley Beal are not available for trade.
Jusuf Nurkic, whose value is limited, and Grayson Allen, recently re-signed for $80 million, add to the team’s cap issues. The Suns are well over the salary cap threshold, resulting in hefty luxury tax payments and trade restrictions.
Despite these challenges, the Suns might have an opportunity to exploit the vulnerable Cleveland Cavaliers by targeting certain players. While stars like Darius Garland and Evan Mobley are out of reach due to their talent, youth, and high cost, the Suns could still enhance their rotation by pursuing less prominent players amid ongoing speculation about the futures of Garland and Donovan Mitchell.
One potential target is Ty Jerome. Originally traded to the Suns but playing only 31 games before being sent to Oklahoma City in the Chris Paul deal, Jerome has since faded from attention. Now 26 and standing 6’5″, Jerome is a reasonably sized guard. Although not a true point guard, he could fill in for Bradley Beal when Beal inevitably misses time due to injury.
Ty Jerome Cavalier Career Mixtape 🫡🫡pic.twitter.com/c1StB8YmlC
— 🧙🏾‍♂️🧣 (@Precision80) May 16, 2024
Jerome’s stock is currently low after an ankle injury requiring surgery sidelined him since January. The Suns could potentially trade David Roddy for Jerome, a deal unlikely to disappoint either team. While this move wouldn’t be a game-changer, Roddy is not a significant player for the Suns. Trading him for Jerome, who averaged over 10 points per game in his second season and is under contract for only $5 million over the next two seasons, seems a worthwhile risk.