Phoenix Suns approaching deadline for necessary roster cuts

The Phoenix Suns find themselves facing complications after trading Deandre Ayton in a 4-for-2 swap right before the start of the season. This trade has left the Suns with two extra players, creating a situation that needs to be addressed. Instead of making immediate moves, the Suns have chosen to see how things play out during training camp. The deadline for final rosters is on October 23, the day before the regular season begins.

Although the Suns could make roster changes at any given moment, it is more likely that they will wait until after the final preseason game on Thursday. Head coach Frank Vogel emphasized that the coaching staff will provide input, while the final decision on who makes the roster and who doesn’t will be made by the front office.

Currently, the Suns have 17 standard contracts with two of their three two-way spots already filled. These two-way players, Saben Lee and Udoka Azubuike, do not count towards the 15-man roster limit. However, for teams in the luxury tax, guarantees on salaries can play a role in roster decisions. The Suns’ projected luxury tax bill sits at $56.7 million, according to Spotrac. Making roster moves can potentially reduce this figure by a few million dollars.

Among the players in question, Jordan Goodwin has a $1.9 million salary, with less than a million guaranteed at the moment. On the other hand, Ish Wainright’s $1.9 million salary is fully non-guaranteed until mid-January. Keon Johnson ($2.8 million) and Bol Bol ($2 million) are fully guaranteed, which adds complexity to the decision-making process.

Goodwin’s performances have shown promise, making him a likely candidate to secure a spot on the playoff rotation. Wainright, a skilled defender, has progressively improved his offensive game and has been highly dedicated to his craft. However, a calf strain has prevented him from showcasing his skills during the preseason. Despite this, the coaching staff is impressed by his work ethic and attitude.

The Suns may explore the trade market for players like Johnson, who possesses exceptional athleticism and defensive potential. Given his limited role in the preseason, it may be possible to trade him without having to sacrifice a second-round pick. On the other hand, Grayson Allen and Nassir Little are valuable additions to the Suns and unlikely to be moved elsewhere.

Bol’s signing was surprising, considering the additional roster depth and the fully guaranteed one-year deal. Although his performance in Orlando last year was inconsistent, the Suns have faith that he can develop over the course of the season. However, time is running out for the fifth-year player to prove himself.

Most of the Suns’ signings this summer include a player option on the minimum salary for the second year. Players have the opportunity to decline this option for a better payday if they perform well. These players are unlikely to be cut, leaving Chimezie Metu as the only signing without guarantees beyond this season. Metu’s solid performances in the preseason indicate that he is not a candidate for release.

Damion Lee, who suffered a meniscus injury prior to training camp, remains an important presence in the locker room. His mentality and readiness to contribute when he returns make him a valuable asset for the team. Additionally, he is signed to a one-plus-one contract.

Ultimately, Johnson and Bol are the most probable candidates to be cut. This decision may impact the team’s luxury tax bill, but the Suns are willing to make adjustments to maximize the roster’s potential. In the event that a suitable trade cannot be found, Wainright could be the unfortunate casualty.

The final roster decisions will be made by the night before opening night, providing clarity for the Suns’ lineup moving forward. For the latest updates, follow @KellanOlson on Twitter.