PHOENIX – While trading for Miles Bridges could be seen as a strictly basketball move, the Phoenix Suns might have ulterior motives in the deal to get one player paid. The franchise saved $20 million in tax this season and create some cap space in the 2027 offseason with Bridges on an expiring deal. The space created could be for future moves, but it will most likely be used to get forward Dillon Brooks contract extension done.
After a career year, Brooks is eligible for a massive extension. NBA Insider Jake Fischer broke down the math back in April about what number fans should expect for the 30-year-old’s new deal.
Feb 1, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Dillon Brooks (3) against the Los Angeles Clippers at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Fischer in April about Brooks’ upcoming extension:
“The Suns, I’m told, indeed want to secure a long-term stay for Brooks after his role in establishing them as the West’s foremost regular season surprise team, but sources say that Phoenix is also mindful of the fact that an extension would kick in for Brooks’ age-32 season since there is currently only one season left on his contract in 2026-27 at $21 million. The max extension that Brooks can command is a four-year deal in the $125 million range but the expectation is that a new deal will not reach that upper threshold“
Apr 25, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Dillon Brooks (3) shoots over Oklahoma City Thunder guard Ajay Mitchell (25) in the second half during game three of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images
Given Grayson Allen, Royce O’Neale and Bridges’ salary being off the books for 2027-2028, the Suns will have the space to give Brooks the full four-year, $125 million extension. However, Fischer wrote that the deal won’t come that high of a number, which could irk Brooks. After setting a career mark in points (20.2) and reviving the organization from purgatory, the nine-year pro would rightfully feel entitled to the max extension.
General manager Brian Gregory has to worry about not being in this same cap position next offseason, as Phoenix was deathly close to the second apron before Sunday’s trade. Giving a 32-year-old Brooks $30+ million a year for the next four seasons shows some red flags. Regardless, the two sides will get a deal done, and the Bridges deal makes it more likely sooner rather than later. The final question will be what the final number the two sides will agree on.
Get the BEST Phoenix sports insider information, and exclusive content. SIGN UP HERE to unlock our premium content!*
Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
