Kawhi Leonard to PHX
Things can get pretty hot for the Phoenix Suns this upcoming summer. After landing the number 1 pick in this years NBA Draft, and hiring former Utah Jazz assistant coach, Igor Kokoškov as head coach, the Suns in my opinion are in the drivers seat this offseason. With a boat load of cap space, as well as up and coming Star in Devin Booker, the Suns have a lot to offer in free agency. They may not be an attractive enough destination to attract marquee players such as LeBron James, Kevin Durant, or Demarcus Cousins through free agency, but what about a trade? San Antonio Spurs all-star forward, Kawhi Leonard’s name has been circulating constantly through trade rumors after a very confusing season long rift between he and the Spurs. Many believe Leonard is ready to move on, the Spurs on the other hand believe they can eventually mend their relationship with their disgruntled star. Last summer the Phoenix Suns had a great opportunity to land now Boston Celtics point guard, Kyrie Irving from the Cleveland Cavaliers, but the trade was only explored and never made any progress to being accepted. If the Suns were more aggressive could they have possibly have had the dynamic backcourt duo of Irving-Booker? The San Antonio Spurs have expressed that a “grand slam offer” is needed in order for them to part ways with their All-Star. The Philadelphia 76ers have already made it clear that they will be aggressive in attempts to land Leonard this summer. Many believe the 76ers will offer a package of: G Markelle Fultz, F Robert Covington, F Dario Saric, and the 10th pick (LA Lakers) in the 2018 NBA Draft to the Spurs for Leonard. That’s a grand slam if you ask me. If the Phoenix Suns really want Kawhi Leonard, they have to go all out and be the most aggressive team. The Suns are loaded with young, and talented players as well as potential top 5 lottery picks year in and year out. If I were GM of the Phoenix Suns my offer to the San Antonio Spurs would be: F Josh Jackson, F TJ Warren, F Marquese Chriss, G Brandon Knight (why not) 2019 1st rounder, and 2020 1st rounder. That’s a lot to offer for one player but the Suns have nothing to lose and everything to gain in landing a player like Kawhi Leonard. I believe this summer will be one to remember for NBA fans, and the Phoenix Suns have an opportunity to bring in some promise into their organization by making a huge move. Buckle up NBA fans, we haven’t even reached The Finals yet.