Suns have to be realistic about future

The 2023 offseason looked good in the headlines for the Phoenix Suns. 

Talented offensive weapon Bradley Beal was joining forces with fellow offensive savants Devin Booker and Kevin Durant. Before the season, Booker stated, "Saying it respectfully, I don't know how teams are gonna guard us."

It was a cool statement, but the star power in Phoenix may have created a false sense of confidence, ignoring legitimate questions. How would they guard teams with their personnel? There was also the topic of chemistry, which has always been important in sports, yet seemingly is tossed to the side when big names are involved. 

The first season of Beal, Booker and Durant ended with brooms at the hands of the Minnesota Timberwolves. Simply put, the Timberwolves were the better team in every way that's important when it comes to winning basketball. 

Since that embarrassing exit, the Suns' role player names have changed, but the questions remain the same. They're currently 10th in the Western Conference with a 22-21 record, a far cry from the expectations. But here's the thing: The hope was based on a shaky foundation of big names on a roster once again void of chemistry and identity. 

The strategy has to be deeper than the "go to work" ball between the Suns' big trio. When a rough stretch hits, who are you at the core and is it sustainable? It's January, and it's not clear the Suns or anyone else have those answers. 

Maybe help comes from disgruntled Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler, who was suspended once again Wednesday for two games after missing a team flight. According to reports, the Suns are among a handful of teams Butler is interested in playing for. 

Phoenix is already in the dealing mood, adding three future first-round picks in a trade with the Utah Jazz on Tuesday. The widely held belief is that the Suns are trying to gather enough assets in a move for Butler, which would probably involve the recently benched and currently injured Beal. 

So, yet again, the Suns front office is looking to add another big name in hopes of competing for a championship. There's no questioning Butler's resume and history of making big plays in big moments. It can be argued he would be an upgrade from Beal. But, the issue was never star power with the Suns. 

The issue is the lack of versatility and elite skill sets outside of the three big names. Tyus Jones, Grayson Allen, Royce O'Neale and Mason Plumlee are solid professionals. Ask yourself, though, what do they bring to help compete with the complete rosters in the Western Conference?

These players mentioned are undersized in some cases and don't make up for it in athleticism or dynamic playmaking abilities. Replacing a 31-year-old big name (Beal) with a 35-year-old big name (Butler) won't change this reality unless they show savvy moves to upgrade on the margins. 

There's also the chemistry factor. The Suns are selling fans hope that adding another star before the Feb. 6 trade deadline would be a seamless transition, paving the way for a long playoff journey. 

Seems like a disappointing cycle could be continuing. The star-hunting game is exhilarating but, as the Suns might soon find out, the ride is often short and rarely comes to a smooth end.