The Phoenix Suns have been one of the more active teams during this offseason. After finishing with a 36-46 record and missing out on the NBA Play-In Tournament, the Suns fired head coach Mike Budenholzer, despite having $40 million remaining due to him on his contract.
They also made a change in the way they evaluate and sign players when they moved James Jones into an advisory position to install Brian Gregory as the new general manager. Gregory and owner Mat Ishbia have a relationship that dates back to Ishbia's college days at Michigan State, where Gregory served as an assistant coach.
Then, the changes to the roster ensued, starting with the trading of Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets for Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, the No. 10 overall pick in last week's draft and five second-round picks.
With free agency having started at 6 p.m. ET Monday, teams around the league have been active. That includes the Milwaukee Bucks, who made waves when they announced they were cutting star guard Damian Lillard and will pay out the remaining $113 million over the next five seasons.
While Lillard will rehabilitate a torn achilles and will miss most of the season, that hasn't stopped speculation regarding where Lillard could land next. According to NBA Insider FLEX From Jersey, he believes the Suns could be a possible destination for the nine-time All-Star.
"I'll say this, and this is solely from my conversations and contacts close to Dame," wrote FLEX From Jersey. "He loves Phoenix, has an incredible love and appreciation for Devin Booker, and was court side supporting during Suns playoff games in the past! That alone should make his new situation intriguing."
I'll say this, and this is solely from my conversations and contacts close to Dame! He loves Phoenix, has an incredible love and appreciation for Devin Booker, and was court side supporting during Suns playoff games in the past! That alone should make his new situation intriguing https://t.co/hNBl0e9EjF
— FLEX From Jersey (@FlexFromJersey) July 1, 2025
Based on the moves that Gregory and Ishbia have made this offseason, including the trade for former Charlotte Hornets center Mark Williams, the Suns are still going for it and don't look like they'll be giving up anytime soon.
If the Suns were to add Lillard, it would have to be for the right price, as Lillard is still a ways away from returning from his injury and is set to turn 35 on July 15. But if the Suns have patience with Lillard and can get him at a steal of a price, it's hard to believe Ishbia would pass up an opportunity like that.
More must-reads:
Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!