Does Suns offseason grade give hope for team’s future?

Pelton on Suns offseason:

“Like Milwaukee, Phoenix put a massive amount of dead salary on its books with a buyout for the final two years of Bradley Beal’s contract. After dealing Kevin Durant, the Suns can’t realistically contend. Even making the playoffs will be a stretch in the West. But they have flipped their roster in a younger direction with three 2025 draft picks — having started the summer with none — and 23-year-old center Mark Williams, acquired via trade.”

Pelton compared Phoenix’s situation to the Milwaukee Bucks, that waived and stretch Damian Lillard’s massive salary to create room to sign Myles Turner. The two teams received the same grade at a “C+” and have made the much needed scarifies to build around its superstar.

Devin Booker signed a historic two-year, $145-million contract extension and will remain the face of the organization. Last year’s roster was the oldest in the NBA, at an average age of 28.21. After this offseason, the average age is 25.24, which would’ve been nearly top 10 in the league last year.

The Suns are turning back the clock and embracing a younger team, instead of trying to bring in established All-Stars like Durant and Beal. Owner Mat Ishbia has stated that he wants to build a culture in Phoenix and bringing in young, hungry and impressionable players will help build that foundation for the future.

Despite many analysts initially burying the franchise next season, Gregory and his staff have done a stellar job of getting younger and bringing hope back to the fans in the Valley.