PHOENIX — NBA rival executives are keeping a close eye on Devin Booker’s situation with the Phoenix Suns, potentially looking to recruit the five-time All-Star.
“Twenty-nine executives are not doing their job if they’re not constantly thinking about how to get [Nikola] Jokic,” says one NBA exec. @HowardBeck surveys the league for signs of the NBA’s next Big Bang:
https://t.co/FrCK8LkfLI
— The Ringer (@ringer) November 4, 2026
According to a report by The Ringer’s Howard Beck, Booker is among several big names being discussed among executives from other teams, including Nikola Jokic and Bam Adebayo. Beck writes that the Suns guard’s talent seems to be “wasted” and that it’s surprising Booker hasn’t “lashed out” at someone, given the team’s trajectory since its Finals appearance in 2021.
“Booker is 30, still firmly in his prime. How much more of this can he take? How much longer can Phoenix afford to keep him (and his massive contract) given the results?” Beck writes. “The Suns aren’t getting anywhere with him, but they could reset and restock their draft capital by trading him.”
Oct 26, 2026; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (15) shoots against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the first half at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
But with Booker still in his prime, would trading their franchise player really be the right move for the Suns?
A move like that would contradict the message both Booker and the franchise have continued to send about their future together. Booker has made it clear that he wants to continue competing for a championship in Phoenix, while the organization has maintained its commitment to building a contender around its franchise cornerstone.
Oct 21, 2026; Portland, Oregon, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (15) drives to the basket during the second half against Portland Trail Blazers guard Jrue Holiday (5) at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images
Trading Booker would signal a significant shift in that vision and raise questions about whether the Suns believe they can still build a championship-caliber team with him leading the way.
For now, trades remain speculation, but with rival executives reportedly keeping tabs on some of the biggest stars around the league, including Booker, the pressure will continue to build for Phoenix to show that its championship aspirations are still within reach.
Apr 27, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) against the Oklahoma City Thunder in the second half during game four of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
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