The Phoenix Suns stunned the NBA world when reports surfaced the team may be parting ways with veteran point guard Chris Paul. The Suns are weighing options of either waiving and stretching Paul, cutting him to re-sign him for less than the $30.8 million he is guaranteed next season or trading him.
Phoenix’s front office has identified several options to replace Paul. If waiving him becomes the answer, one of the names the Suns are interested in is Washington Wizards point guard Monte Morris, according to Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports.
Fischer also names Immanuel Quickley of the New York Knicks, Davion Mitchell of the Sacramento Kings, and the Miami Heat’s Gabe Vincent.
Superstars Damian Lillard and James Harden are also on the Suns’ radar, particularly if Phoenix trades Chris Paul.
The Wizards introduced a new power team front office led by newly-appointed president Michael Winger. The Wizards expect incremental changes as the team navigates around the four years and $207 million remaining on Bradley Beal’s contract.
Monte Morris has one year and $9.8 million remaining on his deal. Offloading Morris for assets toward a rebuild could be part of the equation for Winger. Morris would be an ideal fit for the Suns’ two superstars, Kevin Durant and Devin Booker.
Morris can conduct the offense. He averaged 5.3 assists in 62 games last season, playing 27 minutes per game. Morris dropped 6.9 dimes per 36 minutes. He can also play off the ball.
When Durant and Booker play on the ball in key situations, Morris has the ability to catch and shoot. Morris is a 39.2% career three-point shooter. His efficiency on low volume of shot attempts suits well when he is on the court with Durant and Booker.
It’s unclear how the Wizards could make a trade that works. Both teams are over the salary cap and would need to match contracts in a potential deal. A third team may be necessary.
If Morris is moved to Phoenix or any other team, getting late first-round or second-round picks in return is imperative. All eyes will be on how Phoenix addresses the Paul situation. Having an open ear for any inquiry about Morris would be wise for the Wizards’ brass.
