Following a disappointing 2024–25 campaign, the Phoenix Suns are expected to prioritize acquiring a starting-level center this offseason, according to NBA insider Jake Fischer.
Fischer reported that Phoenix remains committed to upgrading its interior rotation, regardless of whether Kevin Durant is dealt before training camp begins.
The Suns previously moved on from Jusuf Nurkic midseason, sending him to the Hornets and bringing in Nick Richards, but the franchise reportedly still sees room for improvement at the five.
The team finished 36–46, missing the postseason for the first time since 2020 and ranking 24th in defensive rating, with frontcourt depth emerging as a major concern throughout the year.
Mason Plumlee and rookie Oso Ighodaro were both rotated through the center position late in the season, but neither locked down the role permanently as Phoenix’s defense collapsed during a 3–10 February.
Following Frank Vogel’s dismissal in May 2024, Mike Budenholzer was brought in with the hope of stabilizing the locker room, but he was let go after one season amid widespread underperformance.
Despite boasting a star trio of Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, and Bradley Beal, the Suns struggled with injuries and inconsistent lineup usage, particularly in the frontcourt.
Durant’s future in Phoenix remains uncertain, and any decision on the team’s direction could impact which type of center the franchise targets—whether a rim-protecting anchor or a mobile, pick-and-roll threat.
Richards, acquired from Charlotte in January, started 34 games after the trade but posted just 9.5 points and 8.6 rebounds per game, raising questions about his long-term fit.
Phoenix also dealt away draft capital and supporting pieces during last season’s failed pursuit of Jimmy Butler, leaving limited flexibility to make major moves unless they involve key players.
The organization, now two seasons into Mat Ishbia’s ownership, is expected to be aggressive in reshaping the roster after falling short of championship expectations for the second straight year.
With no head coach currently in place and G League integration restarted through the Valley Suns, the front office appears poised to reassess its roster construction strategy.
