The NBA has seen some unbelievable trades take place this offseason. While teams have tried to strengthen their rosters for the upcoming season, the Washington Wizards shed all their major talent to kick off a rebuild. In a series of astonishing moves, they completed a blockbuster trade to send Bradley Beal to the Phoenix Suns. This made the Kevin Durant-led Suns an indestructible superteam. The Phoenix Suns became immediate favorites for championship contention after their sensational acquisition. The NBA world rejoiced at the idea of a new Big Three in Phoenix.
However, the 2023 offseason has been significant for multiple reasons. While teams have strengthened their roster through major free agency signings and trades, players made headlines with their decision to get on the move. One such player was the $45,640,084 worth NBA star who has now greatly hailed the Suns roster.
An NBA star pays respect to the Kevin Durant-led Phoenix Suns
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The Phoenix Suns faced a bitter elimination in the playoffs last season. They were overpowered by the eventual champions, Denver Nuggets in the second round. However, in an effort to enter the 2023-24 season stronger than ever, the franchise landed 3-time All-Star Bradley Beal. This unbelievable addition to their roster has impressed several fans, including the Portland Trail Blazers‘ star guard, Damian Lillard.
After spending his 12-year career so far in Portland, Damian Lillard finally requested a trade out of the franchise. The 7-time All-Star, who is set to earn a whopping $45,640,084 this season made his intentions clear about leaving the franchise who have constantly failed to provide him the help he needed to win a championship. However, while trying to get to a superteam himself, Dame D.O.L.L.A. had some appreciation for the Suns’ “Big Three.”
“That’s definitely a Big Three. You get Brad Beal, Book, KD, I mean that’s a monster three,” said the NBA Top 75 List member. He added, “I think it’ll be fun to watch, they’ll win a lot of game, and the goal is to win.”
"It's definitely a Big 3."
Damian Lillard on Phoenix Suns trio of Devin Booker, Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal.
Said as a fan, he's looking forward to watching them. #Suns pic.twitter.com/XSYzW0Ch6s
— Duane Rankin (@DuaneRankin) August 18, 2023
However, he explained what the Big Three need to sustain their success, “As players of their level, it just has to click… it wouldn’t surprise me if they did click… be able to work together towards winning so it’ll be fun to watch I’m sure…”
Lillard shared his opinion on how the Suns could work towards winning. He also shared his excitement to watch the Big Three in action together. However how good can the Suns actually be when the season begins?
The Suns are a team to watch out for
Damian Lillard had expressed his excitement to watch the Big Three in action. However, the Suns’ front office’s efforts have culminated in building a roster that is defined by much more than just the Big Three.
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The Suns’ playoff exit last season blatantly exposed their depth concerns. Despite Devin Booker and Durant’s brilliance, the remaining roster failed to support their efforts adequately. DeAndre Ayton accounted for an impressive defensive presence, but the rest of the roster succumbed to the might of the Nuggets. However, that may not be the case this time.
The Suns added much needed help off the bench to support their Big Three this season. From spot-up shooters to wing defenders, the franchise has added tremendous depth to its already-strong roster. Given Booker and Durant’s versatility in scoring, the addition of another terrific scorer in Beal has now elevated the franchise to a different level.
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On paper, the Suns seem like one of the strongest contenders for a championship. However, it would be interesting to see how they fare against the other teams in the Western Conference who have also made a strong case for themselves.