Former Phoenix Suns coach stopped Devin Booker for Jimmy Butler trade in 2017

Watson on stopping Sarver and the trade:

Booker and Watson’s relationship has been well-documented in the past, as the duo had a stellar dynamic. The strength of the friendship came with Watson’s belief of Booker becoming one of the best players in the NBA at such a young age. Booker was only in his second year, but Watson could tell the future four-time All-Star was special.

Butler was with the Bulls at the time and had a infamous beef with head coach Fred Hoiberg. The six-time All-Star would be traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves in the 2017 offseason, where his beef with coaches and front office would continue. Butler is currently on his fifth team in his career, while Booker has been loyal for the past decade.

Watson’s belief proved to be correct almost immediately. A month after the 2017 NBA trade deadline, Booker would have his iconic 70 point game vs. the Boston Celtics, which cemented himself as one of the best young players in the NBA. Booker has grown roots in Phoenix, helped the community in so many ways, became the franchise-leading scorer and will likely retire with the Suns after finishing his Hall of Fame career, which wouldn’t have happened if Watson didn’t speak up.