The Phoenix Suns’ early-season problem is pretty clear: they don’t have a true point guard steering the ship.
Even with Devin Booker doing his thing as one of basketball’s purest scorers, Dillon Brooks in the mix, and a solid supporting cast around them, the Suns are sitting at 1-2. Chris B.
Haynes has reported that frustration is building inside the locker room because Phoenix is leaning on Booker and Jalen Green to handle playmaking duties. They can do it to a point, but that’s not where either guy naturally lives.
That’s why a move for Darius Garland makes so much sense.
A proposed deal sending Jalen Green, Collin Gillespie and a future first-round pick to the LA Clippers for Garland would solve Phoenix’s biggest issue immediately. Garland is a two-time All-Star, and his arrival would give the Suns the sort of table-setting they’ve been missing while also making them a much more serious factor in the Western Conference.
Garland’s own situation is part of what makes this idea so intriguing. He could end up on the Clippers’ trade block anyway, especially after a rough offensive start. Among the playmakers who may be available before the February trade deadline, his name stands out.
For Phoenix, the fit is almost tailor-made. Garland brings a strong handle, precise passing and a high basketball IQ. Over his career, he has averaged 6.7 assists, and that ability to create easy looks for teammates is a huge part of why he has stayed valuable at the highest level.
And that’s the real appeal for the Suns: Booker and Brooks would be able to stay in their comfort zone and focus on scoring. They wouldn’t have to spend as much energy bringing the ball up, dealing with pressure or organizing the offense.
Garland also gives Phoenix another layer because he can score himself. He can get buckets in bunches and has the kind of ability that can lead to 30-point nights, which only eases the burden on everyone else.
From the Clippers’ side, the package brings back a gifted scorer in Green, a useful bench contributor in Gillespie and draft capital. As presented, it’s the kind of move that helps both sides.
For Phoenix, though, the logic is simple: if Garland is available, the Suns should be all over it.
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