There is one variable that could end up costing the Phoenix Suns a real shot to win the NBA championship this season.
The Phoenix Suns were able to secure the biggest prize at the trade deadline as they pulled off a blockbuster deal for 12-time all-star Kevin Durant in exchange for Mikal Bridges, Cam Johnson, Jae Crowder, and four 1st round picks (and pick swaps).
A king’s ransom is what the Suns sacrificed in order to acquire Durant, and while they are getting one of the best players in the NBA, they will have to consider if they have quality depth at every position and if the players on the bench can keep a game competitive when the starters go to the bench.
What the Suns gave up to get Durant was a lot because players like Bridges come a dime a dozen in this league. A true 3-and-D player who always took pride in the fact that he was responsible for guarding the opposing team’s top offensive threat on most nights, Bridges can also provide a spark on the offensive end whenever given the opportunity to make plays.
Bridges has always been dependable and his availability has been an asset as he has never missed a game in his career. Johnson was also great in his role during his tenure in Phoenix. He could come off the bench or easily be inserted in the starting lineup and not miss a beat. Johnson had some big games for the Suns when Booker and Paul were out with injuries as his energy off the bench is contagious.
An avid sharpshooter from behind the arc, Johnson is shooting 45 percent from deep this season. So the question to be answered now is does this team have enough depth and quality players to make a deep run in the postseason?