Phoenix Suns reportedly eyeing Derrick Rose and Carmelo Anthony to improve their roster and make a run for the NBA championship.
It has been an interesting stretch in the Western Conference as contenders like the Denver Nuggets (42-19), Dallas Mavericks (32-30), and Los Angeles Clippers (33-29) made significant moves to improve their rosters before the trade deadline. However, there is one team that made the biggest move and is still looking for more additions – the Phoenix Suns (33-29).
Phoenix Suns Eyeing Derrick Rose
Reportedly, the Phoenix Suns are eyeing Derrick Rose to provide additional depth at point guard. The three-time All-Star and 2011 NBA MVP has been largely sidelined on the New York Knicks’ bench, with his last appearance dating back to December 31.
Rose, who is under contract for $14.5 million this season, could bring a wealth of experience and skill to the Suns’ lineup. With Chris Paul and Cameron Payne already on the roster, Rose could provide valuable backup support and add a new dimension to the team’s playing style.
This acquisition could come at a critical moment for the Suns, who recently landed Kevin Durant in a blockbuster trade. With the addition of Rose, the team would have a formidable lineup capable of competing at the highest levels of the league.
While the Knicks have a team option of $15.6 million for Rose in 2023-24, reports suggest that they may not plan to exercise it. This could mean that Rose’s time in New York is limited, and the Suns are in a prime position to take advantage of the situation.
A buyout still feels unlikely, but sources close to the situation don’t believe the door is completely shut on the possibility.
Chris Haynes
As the NBA season heats up, the Phoenix Suns’ interest in Derrick Rose is definitely something to keep an eye on. If a deal is struck, it could have a major impact on the league’s balance of power and the race for the championship.
Carmelo Anthony is Still Available
One player who remains unsigned but could make a significant impact is future Hall-of-Famer Carmelo Anthony. According to SNY’s Ian Begley, the Phoenix Suns are a team to watch in regard to Anthony’s future.
Begley suggests that a partnership between Anthony and the Suns’ new addition Kevin Durant should not be ruled out, as Durant has expressed interest in teaming up with Anthony in the past. In addition, Anthony and Suns’ point guard Chris Paul maintain a close friendship, adding another layer of potential interest in Anthony’s services.
The 38-year-old Anthony was a quality reserve for the Lakers last season, averaging 13.3 points per game. He would be a solid fit for the Suns, who are stacked through the starting five but have real depth concerns. This season, Phoenix’s bench is averaging 36.3 PPG, which is eighth in the Western Conference while shooting 43.3 percent from the field, which is third-worst in the NBA.
While there is no word yet on whether the Suns are actively pursuing Anthony, the team’s need for depth at the forward position could make him an attractive option. If a deal is struck, Anthony could provide the Suns with a much-needed boost off the bench and help solidify their position as one of the top teams in the Western Conference.
Updated Phoenix Suns Odds
Per DraftKings Arizona Sportsbook, the Phoenix Suns have +425 odds to win the NBA 2023 championship, which puts them just behind the frontrunner Boston Celtics with +280 odds. After the trade deadline, the Suns emerged as the favorites to win in the Western Conference, with +235 odds.
With Kevin Durant now in Arizona, the Suns are poised to make a deep playoff run and potentially win their first NBA championship. Their odds reflect the confidence that sports analysts and fans
