Roster - Phoenix Suns

The Suns continue to tread water as they fight to maintain a chance for homecourt advantage in at least the 1^st round in the playoffs.  They continue to deal with injuries, but have made some trades to help with depth.  First, the Suns went out and got Rajon Rondo.  The need for a quality backup point guard was important, since RJ Hampton is not quite ready to shine.  Rondo has a few key badges that GM Pennywise covets for his players, so he should fit in nicely with the team.  Second, the Suns went out and added to their big man depth, by adding Daniel Oturu.  Oturu was highly scouted by the Suns and if they hadn’t made the trade up to get Hampton, would likely have been taken with one of those early 2nds.  The ability to add him to the team arose, and the Suns didn’t hesitate to grab him.  There is an understanding that he is not quite fully developed and prepared for the NBA game, but he fits what the Suns want of their big men, and should fill in nicely at center until Demarcus Cousins can return to a starting role. 

Speaking of Cousins, there are rumors flying that he will likely sign a 10 day contract with the NBA Clippers next week, so Boogie may hit the starting lineup by week 12.  Hopefully, he can show enough to get the Clips to commit to him for at least the rest of this season!

KD is still out, but his return seems eminent, especially with Harden heading to the IR for the NBA Nets.  There is hope that he may finally return for week 12 also.

And lastly, Kyle Lowry is nursing a foot infection and is expected to miss weeks 11 and 12.  Talk about great foresight to add Rondo prior to this!

Side notes… Lauri Markkanen stats before and after trade

Impressive changes for the big man.  Looks like he is happy as a 3^rd option in Phoenix!