A pivotal moment in Phoenix Suns history nearly unfolded behind closed doors, according to former head coach Earl Watson. Speaking recently about his time in Phoenix, Watson revealed he personally stopped a trade that would have sent Devin Booker to the Chicago Bulls in exchange for Jimmy Butler.
The proposed deal surfaced during Booker’s early years in the NBA, when Phoenix was still searching for direction following multiple rebuilding seasons. At the time, Butler was an established All-Star, while Booker was still viewed externally as a promising but unproven scorer.
Watson recalled being summoned during a road trip after then-owner Robert Sarver informed him of the agreement. “We’re on a road trip. [Robert] Sarver sends me a text, ‘Come to my house immediately’,” Watson said, describing the urgency of the situation.
Once there, Watson said Sarver explained the framework of the deal. “We have a trade for Devin. We’re gonna send Devin to Chicago for Jimmy Butler,” Sarver told him, according to Watson’s account.
The former coach said he immediately opposed the move, citing his belief in Booker’s long-term potential. “In that moment, I was the biggest Devin Booker advocate,” Watson said, emphasizing the conviction behind his stance.
Watson went a step further by attaching his own job security to the decision. “I seen a kid that could be one of the greatest players ever. I said, ‘If you trade Devin Booker, I am resigning tonight,’” he said.
Booker ultimately remained in Phoenix, a decision that reshaped the franchise’s trajectory. The Suns later built around the former Kentucky guard, who became the face of the organization and a cornerstone of multiple playoff runs.
Now 29, Booker continues to anchor Phoenix’s offense during the 2025–26 season. He is averaging 25.4 points, 6.2 assists, and 4.0 rebounds per game while starting all 41 contests he has played.
Phoenix currently sits seventh in the Western Conference at 28–19, positioning itself as a contender in a tightly packed playoff race. Booker’s scoring efficiency and playmaking remain central to the Suns’ identity.
