The Phoenix Suns are reshaping their roster with significant changes this offseason, starting with the dismissal of head coach Mike Budenholzer after only one year. Owner Mat Ishbia then appointed Brian Gregory as the new GM, shifting James Jones into a senior advisory role. Gregory has aggressively addressed the team’s center needs, trading superstar Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets for promising assets, including Jalen Green and Dillon Brooks. With the 10th pick, the Suns selected Khaman Maluach, a rim-running big from Duke, and additionally acquired Mark Williams from Charlotte, indicating a strategy to bolster their frontcourt.

Gregory emphasized the need for rim protection, as the Suns struggled defensively last season. Both Maluach and Williams offer potential to develop, relieving immediate pressure on Maluach. The Suns aim to contend in a competitive Western Conference rather than rebuild, signifying a strong commitment to reloading their roster effectively.

Dillon Brooks shared a personal moment reflecting on his involvement in the trade that sent Kevin Durant from the Phoenix Suns to the Houston Rockets. Memorable for him, Brooks was at a spa when he received the news, which he described as a delightful surprise that marked the beginning of a new chapter with a younger Suns team. The trade not only brought Brooks but also Jalen Green and the 10th overall pick Khaman Maluach, indicating a clear focus on youth and potential.

Green, the former number one option for the Rockets, struggled in the 2025 postseason, leaving room for growth and redemption as he joins Phoenix. Meanwhile, Maluach, a promising young talent from Duke, aims to honor his roots in Africa and make a significant impact in the league. The recent acquisition of Mark Williams further emphasizes the Suns' commitment to cultivating a competitive, young roster. Brooks expressed his excitement about the direction the Suns are heading, emphasizing the motivation and hunger of the new players.

The Phoenix Suns are on a transformative path following a lackluster 36-46 season. Owner Mat Ishbia took decisive action by firing head coach Mike Budenholzer, despite a hefty remaining contract. Ishbia then shifted James Jones to a new advisory role, appointing Brian Gregory as the new general manager. Gregory, who has history with Ishbia from their Michigan State days, wasted no time in reshaping the roster.

In a significant move, Gregory traded Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets in exchange for Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, and the No. 10 draft pick, which the Suns used to select center Khaman Maluach. The Suns also acquired Mark Williams from the Charlotte Hornets, adding depth to their center position. As the Western Conference intensifies, the combination of Devin Booker, Green, and Williams sets a new trajectory for the Suns.

The Charlotte Hornets have officially traded Mark Williams to the Phoenix Suns, finalizing a deal that was fraught with challenges, including failed physicals and rescinded agreements. This trade marks a pivotal moment in Charlotte's rebuilding process, allowing fans to focus on a more promising future. In return, the Hornets secured a 2029 first-round pick, veteran point guard Vasilije Micic, and top prospect Liam McNeeley, who was taken 29th overall in the 2025 NBA Draft.

Williams, once viewed as the franchise's cornerstone, was part of a complex trade saga that also included earlier failed attempts to move him. The new front office under Jeff Peterson has effectively turned a congested frontcourt situation into a strategic stockpile of assets, creating optimism among Hornets supporters. With this trade, Charlotte appears to be embracing a long-term vision aimed at moving beyond mediocrity.

The Phoenix Suns have made significant changes this offseason, starting with a blockbuster trade sending Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets for Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, a 2025 first-round pick, and multiple second-rounders. They selected Duke's Khaman Maluach with their 10th pick and acquired Mark Williams from Charlotte, addressing frontcourt concerns. Williams, despite injury risks, offers a reliable scoring and defensive presence, essential after last season's struggles.

As they gear up for free agency, the Suns aim to further bolster their roster around Devin Booker, hoping to shift from a disappointing season to one filled with promise.