Yardbarker
x
'Take a Step Back' – Phoenix Suns’ GM on the Failed Big 3
Mar 4, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Bradley Beal (3) takes a pass from Phoenix Suns center Bol Bol (11) against LA Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (2) during the first half at PHX Center. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images

'Take a Step Back' – Phoenix Suns’ GM on the Failed Big 3

Originally posted on Hardwood Heroics  |  By Reign Amurao  |  Last updated Jul 8, 2025 8:22 AM ET

Many teams have tried forming superteams in hopes of winning an NBA championship. However, most attempts do not pan out the way many thought they would. That includes the attempt made by the Phoenix Suns when they facilitated a trade for Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal. The Big 3 tried to have three ball-dominant star players share the floor, and it did not work.

Many would point out that the injuries that the stars sustained during their tenure together were one of the biggest reasons why the experiment failed. Devin Booker, Durant and Beal only played 37 games together for the 2024-25 NBA season, according to The Arizona Republic.

The Suns didn’t waste their time when they recognized that they needed to move on from Durant and Beal. The first move they made was trading away KD to the Houston Rockets in an NBA-record, seven-team deal. The three-time All-Star guard is next on their list, according to reports from various news outlets.

Brian Gregory, general manager of the Phoenix Suns, discussed the decision to let go of two of the stars on Monday.

“With the first trade and the second trade, you’re trying to win championships, as we stated,” Gregory said. “We were not able to accomplish that. You have take a step back and say, what’s next and what do we need to do. We felt we needed to make some changes. That’s where the trade with Kevin occurred.”

While they were able to find a reasonable trade for Durant, Beal’s situation is different. The All-Star guard has a no-trade clause, which gives him the power to veto trades. This is why the Phoenix Suns are trying to negotiate with the former Washington Wizards star for a contract buyout.

The Phoenix Suns’ general manager is excited for the rookies


Jan 20, 2024; Durham, North Carolina, USA; Duke recruit Khaman Maluach leaves the court after watching a game between the Duke Blue Devils and Pittsburgh Panthers at Cameron Indoor Stadium. The Panthers won 80-76. Mandatory Credit: Rob Kinnan-USA TODAY Sports

The Phoenix Suns were able to draft promising young rookies at the 2025 NBA draft. With the No. 10 pick, they landed Khaman Maluach. Rasheer Fleming was picked with the No. 31 pick and Koby Brea followed with the No. 41 pick.

On Monday, they had their introductory press conference and were formally introduced to the media. Gregory talked about his excitement for the three youngsters, who he believes will make significant contributions to the organization next season.

“We’re excited about these three guys joining our team,” Gregory said. “With one practice in right now, to be honest with you, I’m even more excited watching them, their competitiveness.”

The Phoenix Suns have a promising young group, together with Ryan Dunn and Oso Ighodaro, who were selected with the No. 28 and No. 40 picks, respectively.


'Time': Phoenix Suns General Manager Explains His Process of Hiring a New Head Coach 2 Suns owner Mat Ishbia speaks with the press during a news conference at Footprint Center in Phoenix on May 1, 2024.

This article first appeared on Hardwood Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads:

Customize Your Newsletter

Yardbarker +

Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.