A general view of the Phoenix Suns logo on the court before a game against the New Orleans Pelicans at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images

Two Former Phoenix Suns Stars Land on NBA’s Best Big 3 List

Originally posted on Athlon Sports
By Nathaniel Holloway | Last updated Aug 11, 2025 10:37 PM ET

The Phoenix Suns have made some major changes to their roster this offseason as they have officially ended their big three era.

Of course, the Suns began their offseason by trading Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets and later on bought out Bradley Beal’s contract, allowing him to sign with the Los Angeles Clippers.

By making these moves, the Suns officially broke up their big three as Devin Booker is the only star remaining for them and he is set to be the focal point of their future after they signed him to a massive contract extension.

2 former Suns' stars named part of top star trios in NBA

While the Suns decided to break apart their star trio after their struggles over the past few seasons, Bleacher Report’s Greg Swartz named both Durant and Beal as part of two of the top five big threes in the NBA.

Swartz ranked the Clippers’ star trio of Kawhi Leonard, James Harden and Beal as the fifth-best big three in the league.

“Beal has become a bit of an afterthought the past two seasons with the Phoenix Suns on a bloated contract, but is arguably the best bargain in the NBA now with the Clippers for just $5.3 million,” Swartz wrote.

While Swartz did mention Beal’s struggles over the past few seasons in Phoenix, he is now set to have a large role for the Clippers with a chance to turn things around on a team-friendly deal.

Of course, the Clippers are expected to be a title contender next season with their new star trio, though Leonard and Beal’s injury histories may be a cause for concern.

Swartz also listed the Rockets’ star trio of Durant, Alperen Sengun and Amen Thompson on his list of the top big threes in the NBA as they slotted in fourth on his list.

“Durant's age (37 in September) will start to become a concern, although putting two young, emerging stars around him will lessen his responsibilities on both ends, allowing for fresher legs and continued offensive efficiency,” Swartz wrote. “The Rockets are going to be really good next season and should have championship aspirations now with Durant.”

While Swartz mentioned that Durant’s age could be an issue for Houston, along with his injury history, the young players around him will allow the star forward to lessen his role on a team expected to be a championship contender next season after finishing second in the West last year.

It is clear that Swartz believes that both Durant and Beal are set to have great seasons with their new teams despite their struggles in Phoenix.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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