The Phoenix Suns are at a critical juncture following a disappointing 2024-2025 season, finishing with a 36-46 record and failing to qualify for the NBA Play-In Tournament despite possessing a star-studded lineup that includes Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal. The team's primary issue lay in their defensive prowess, finishing with the third-worst defensive efficiency in the league, only above the New Orleans Hornets and Utah Jazz. A lack of communication and a weak rim-protecting big man, particularly with Jusuf Nurkic averaging only 0.6 blocks per game, severely hampered their defensive efforts.

As the Suns look to rebound, the 2025 NBA Draft looms. Holding the 29th pick, analysts speculate they may select Ryan Kalkbrenner from Creighton, who has been recognized for his defensive expertise, including winning multiple Defensive Player of the Year awards in the Big East. His 7-foot-1 frame and shooting ability could fill a critical gap in the Suns' lineup and elevate their defensive capabilities. All eyes are also on whether the team will consider trading Durant before the draft, potentially reshaping their future.

The Portland Trail Blazers wrapped up the 2024-25 NBA season with a 36-46 record, finishing 12th in the Western Conference. Despite low expectations, the team ignited hopes of a Play-In spot with a winning streak before the trade deadline, but ultimately fell short. The front office opted not to trade any veterans, focusing instead on player development. Deni Avdija shone as a fantasy standout, averaging 16.9 points and 7.3 rebounds, while Toumani Camara emerged as a valuable asset with solid defensive and offensive contributions.

However, Jerami Grant's disappointing performance raised concerns, especially as younger players began to emerge. Deandre Ayton faced injury issues, limiting his impact, while Anfernee Simons showcased better availability this season. With the offseason approaching, the future roster dynamics remain uncertain as the Blazers continue their rebuild.

Mike Budenholzer's tenure as head coach of the Phoenix Suns has ended after just one season, following a disappointing 36-46 campaign that culminated in a missed playoff berth. Owner Mat Ishbia labeled his hiring as a mistake, acknowledging that Budenholzer's hard-nosed coaching style did not resonate well with the team. This was particularly evident in his relationships with players like Jusuf Nurkic, who expressed a lack of communication with the coach during the season.

Analysts, including Eddie Johnson, noted that Budenholzer's old-school approach might work for some players, but it requires a balance of assertiveness and empathy that he seemingly failed to provide. His demanding style did not sit well with seasoned veterans like Devin Booker and Kevin Durant, leading to a lack of trust in the locker room. The friction between Budenholzer and the team's stars, highlighted by reported disagreements, ultimately sealed his fate in Phoenix.

Drafting in fantasy basketball can be a hit-or-miss experience, and this season has been no different. Joel Embiid's repeated injury woes culminated in only 19 games played, leading him to be a significant disappointment in the first round. LaMelo Ball failed to meet expectations as well, hindered by inefficiencies that left him ranking 55th in 9-cat leagues.

In the third round, Lauri Markkanen struggled to maintain his prior scoring and rebounding levels due to the dysfunction within the Jazz organization. Meanwhile, Immanuel Quickley, taken in the fourth round, couldn't contribute effectively as anticipated, and Brandon Ingram's unfortunate severe ankle sprain kept him sidelined for months. Jrue Holiday's decline continued into round six while Jusuf Nurkic plummeted in value after failing to secure a starting role. Terry Rozier and Alex Caruso were both major letdowns, and Marcus Smart's injury risks didn't help his new role in Washington.