The Phoenix Suns are heading into the late summer of 2025 with two open roster spots still unclaimed. As fans and analysts alike debate how those final spots should be filled, it becomes increasingly important to pause and reflect on the philosophy that should guide those decisions. While fans are always eager to plug in new names—Jonathan Kuminga, Josh Giddey, Ben Simmons, Jevon Carter, or Josh Okogie—the heart of the matter lies in understanding what this Suns team truly needs and what kind of players will realistically contribute to success during the upcoming NBA season.
Understanding the Offseason Dialogue
Every NBA offseason plays out in a familiar cycle: speculation, debate, and hope. Suns fans are no different. With any hint of roster weakness, the fan base quickly divides into “camps,” each one championing a particular free agent or idea. Whether it’s a player with potential upside, a proven name, or a gritty underdog who previously wore the Suns jersey, the debates rage on. Some fans prioritize versatility, others want proven toughness, and many crave raw athleticism or floor spacing. This diversity of opinion reflects how emotionally and strategically invested the Suns community has become.
But amidst the noise of names being thrown around, one truth holds steady: the final roster decisions should be grounded in principles and practical assessments, not just wishful thinking. The discussion shouldn’t just be about who could fill a slot, but why they should—and what specific purpose they’d serve.
A Transparent Lens for Evaluation
Before diving into names, Suns analyst John Voita emphasizes the importance of transparency in how he evaluates these roster spots. Everyone has their lens and perspective, and disagreement is not only expected, it’s encouraged. Healthy dialogue around different player fits and philosophies is what fuels engagement and deepens the understanding of team-building strategies.
So rather than throwing out names in a vacuum, Voita outlines the core needs of the current Suns roster. By identifying the specific areas lacking in depth or consistency, the process of selecting the right player becomes clearer, more logical, and more productive.
Focusing on Fit: The Suns’ True Roster Needs
Unlike the NBA Draft—where talent is prioritized over immediate need—free agency is all about fit. The Suns can’t afford to gamble on projects or long-term development. They need plug-and-play options, players who address real gaps in the current lineup.
Looking at the Suns’ depth chart, the glaring weaknesses begin to surface. While the top-heavy structure of the roster remains intact with stars like Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, and Bradley Beal leading the way, the supporting cast still lacks certain qualities. This isn’t a matter of raw numbers, but of strategic balance.
Key needs identified include:
- Perimeter Defense – The Suns have lacked a consistent lockdown defender since Mikal Bridges was traded. Jevon Carter or Josh Okogie—both former Suns—could help patch this hole. They’re known for their hustle, on-ball pressure, and ability to frustrate opposing guards.
- Point-of-Attack Presence – With the departure of Chris Paul and reliance on combo guards, the Suns need a backcourt player who can initiate the offense under pressure. This doesn’t mean a flashy name, but someone reliable, with high basketball IQ and ball-handling composure.
- Athleticism and Versatility – The modern NBA demands length, agility, and flexibility across multiple positions. Players like Kuminga or Giddey offer that kind of switchability and upside. Even Ben Simmons—despite his flaws—presents value in size, passing, and defensive range.
- Toughness and Grit – Winning teams need role players who bring edge and tenacity. This is where someone like Okogie shines. His presence may not always show in the box score, but his hustle plays can change momentum in big moments.
- Injury Insurance – The Suns are built around aging or injury-prone stars. Adding depth with reliable veterans who can step in without disrupting chemistry is essential. This may not be the most exciting roster move, but it’s often the most important one by season’s end.
The Patience Philosophy
At the heart of Voita’s perspective is a call for patience—an increasingly rare virtue in today’s win-now culture. Rather than chasing the most recognizable name left on the market or rushing to fill holes out of panic, the Suns should take a measured approach.
This is a team that has championship aspirations. And with that comes the need to be selective. The right player isn’t always the loudest, most hyped, or most available one. It’s the individual who fits seamlessly into the locker room, complements the current rotations, and aligns with head coach Mike Budenholzer’s system.
Rushed decisions often lead to mismatches—both on the court and in the team culture. The Suns, under new ownership and front-office direction (including Mat Ishbia and GM James Jones), must now show they can balance urgency with foresight.
Development vs. Readiness
There’s also the age-old question: should those final roster spots be used on young, developing prospects or proven veterans?
Voita leans toward players who are ready to contribute. Development has its place—especially through the G-League and two-way contracts—but when a team’s core is in win-now mode, you don’t use your last few seats for passengers. You need crew members ready to operate when called upon.
That doesn’t mean youth is disqualified. If a young player like Kuminga or Giddey has shown enough flashes and fits a real need, they could be ideal. But again, it’s not about age or potential. It’s about readiness, fit, and role clarity.
Names to Watch, But Through the Right Lens
Of course, the speculation continues. Fans and media alike will toss out names. And that’s part of the fun. Kuminga, Giddey, Simmons, Okogie, Carter—all have compelling arguments in their favor. But each one also brings risks, unknowns, or baggage. Evaluating them must be done through a thoughtful lens, considering everything from cap space, locker room chemistry, and positional overlap.
The Suns’ current structure—with stars in place—demands that the rest of the roster act like connective tissue. They don’t need 20-point scorers. They need glue guys, defenders, rebounders, and leaders who thrive in roles, not spotlights.
Conclusion: Let the Vision Lead, Not the Hype
Ultimately, this stage of roster building isn’t about flashy headlines or selling jerseys. It’s about thoughtful construction. The Suns have their stars. Now they need to carefully finish the frame. Rushing to fill those final two spots would be a mistake.
By identifying true roster needs, embracing role players, and exercising patience, Phoenix can put the finishing touches on a team that has real potential to contend in 2025. The key is discipline—resisting the urge to act out of pressure or public opinion—and trusting a philosophy built on purpose, not panic.
If Suns fans can hold onto that vision, they might just be rewarded with the kind of team that doesn’t just compete—but finally breaks through.
