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Phoenix Suns guard shines in Summer League just hours after Bradley Beal’s departure, possible replacement found
Credit: Kenneth Richmond/Candice Ward via Getty Images

Phoenix Suns guard shines in Summer League just hours after Bradley Beal’s departure, possible replacement found

Originally posted on NBA Analysis Network
By James Shearman  |  Last updated Jul 17, 2025 9:23 AM ET

The Phoenix Suns’ difficult offseason continued with the departure of Bradley Beal to the Los Angeles Clippers.

After Beal’s contract buyout and Kevin Durant’s trade to the Houston Rockets , only Devin Booker remains from the big three.

The Suns must now build around Booker once more as they look to make the playoffs in a loaded Western Conference.

The good news is that one Summer League player impressed immediately after Beal’s exit and could earn a spot on the roster next season.

Photo by Candice Ward/Getty Images

Boogie Ellis stars for Phoenix Suns in Summer League

The three most notable players in the Suns’ Summer League starting five are Ryan Dunn, Oso Ighodaro, and Khaman Maluach.

However, shooting guard Boogie Ellis is now making a name for himself. He scored 23 points against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Wednesday night.

Ellis made seven of his 13 field goal attempts (53.8%), including three three-pointers, and converted all six free throws.

It was his first start for the Suns at the Summer League, a reward for scoring eight points in 15 minutes and 16 points in 19 minutes off the bench in two previous games.

Of course, it’s too early to suggest that Ellis can replace Beal’s output, but he at least deserves an opportunity in the regular season.

Photo by Kenneth Richmond/Getty Images

Phoenix Suns projected starting five after Bradley Beal contract buyout

The Phoenix Suns might actually be an excellent example of ‘addition by subtraction’ in the NBA next season.

Booker, Durant, and, to a lesser extent, Beal, are all great players, but they simply did not gel together. The roster now looks far more balanced.

As long as he can stay healthy, Booker should be in All-NBA team conversations with averages of around 28 points and 10 assists next season.

Jalen Green will enjoy being the second option in Phoenix, while Mark Williams could flourish in a more competitive situation than Charlotte.

Ryan Dunn and Dillon Brooks are both excellent defenders at the wing position and complement the offensive-minded backcourt perfectly.

This article first appeared on NBA Analysis Network and was syndicated with permission.

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