Suns Reload Around Devin Booker for 2025-26 Season

The Phoenix Suns are gearing up for a pivotal 2025-26 season, aiming to reposition themselves as contenders around their star guard, Devin Booker. After a tumultuous previous season that saw the team struggle, owner Mat Ishbia made a commitment to pivot and reload instead of undertaking a full-scale rebuild—an assurance he reiterated during a March interview with ESPN. Ishbia firmly rejected the notion of trading Booker, labeling such an idea as “silly” and stating, “that will never happen.”

As the franchise enters Booker’s 11th season, the Suns have made significant roster changes, including a lucrative contract extension for the prolific scorer. However, the landscape of the team has shifted as key players Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal have departed, leaving a new core around Booker.

In an effort to enhance their defensive capabilities, the Suns have brought in Dillon Brooks, who was acquired in the trade that sent Durant to the Dallas Mavericks. Brooks is expected to set the tone for a team that struggled defensively last season. Alongside him, Jalen Green, another acquisition from the Durant deal, is anticipated to take on a substantial portion of the playmaking duties that once belonged to Durant, Beal, and Tyus Jones.

The Suns have also revamped their frontcourt, introducing two new young centers: Mark Williams and Khaman Maluach, who was selected with the 10th overall pick in the recent draft. Additionally, the team has appointed Jordan Ott as their new head coach, tasked with blending these new pieces into a cohesive unit.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding their current roster composition, the Suns are no longer viewed as the NBA’s most disappointing team. Last season, they got off to a strong start, winning eight of their first nine games, showcasing the potential that still lies within the team. Yet, the challenge remains: can they build on that initial success and sustain it throughout the season?

As reported by CBS Sports, the Suns’ strategy focuses on surrounding Booker with a mix of established talent and youthful energy. This approach reflects a significant shift from the previous season’s struggles, where the team could not find the right balance with star-studded names. The foundation is set, but the Suns will need to demonstrate that their new roster can gel and compete effectively in a highly competitive Western Conference.

With the stakes high, all eyes will be on Booker as he leads this restructured squad. The Suns are banking on his leadership and talent to guide them back into the playoff conversation and possibly beyond. Success this season could establish a new identity for the franchise and rekindle aspirations of championship contention.