The Phoenix Suns might have a chance to add All-Star Paolo Banchero to the roster in the upcoming offseason. Reports have circulated about the Orlando Magic growing frustrated with the young star duo of Banchero and Franz Wagner failing to get on the same page. Banchero could be the star moved since he has greater value on the trade market than Wagner coming off an injured season.
TWSN reported that the Suns are a top option if Orlando trades Paolo during the upcoming offseason:
“If Orlando exits the playoffs early and the internal issues prove to be as serious as reported, the front office will have difficult conversations to navigate quickly. One scenario that has been gaining traction would send Banchero to the Phoenix Suns, where he would slot in as a versatile scoring option on a roster being reshaped around a harder, more accountable culture.”
Phoenix holds enough assets to make a trade for a star to boost their chances of contending in the near future. Devin Booker is the only obvious piece on the roster to build around, with Dillon Brooks and Jalen Green as the next options. The Suns have to fully believe in Banchero and Booker being good enough for title contention to pull off a trade.
Realistic Trade Package For Paolo Banchero
The same article from TWSN named the trade package that would be needed for Orlando to risk losing out on a future star. Banchero’s background as a former top overall pick makes it harder to just trade him without having regret involved.
The following trade package would be needed for Phoenix to get Paolo:
Phoenix Suns receive: Paolo Banchero, Tristan da Silva
Orlando Magic receive: Jalen Green, Royce O’Neale, 2027 first-round pick (via Utah, Cleveland, or Minnesota), 2029 first-round pick swap (Houston)
Phoenix would have to give up two first round picks, and that may be playing it conservatively with this offer. Green is the main name involved as a young player who has contributed to winning situations. Royce O’Neale would add another veteran to give the Magic more depth after losing Banchero.
Why Orlando Magic Would Want This Deal
Orlando may want more than just two first round draft picks in exchange for trading their most valuable franchise player. This trade would see Green, Wagner, and Desmond Bane as their top three players, along with a deeper bench to utilize their overall depth.
Teams have learned over the past few seasons that sometimes trading away a star in exchange for depth is the right move. Phoenix actually improved by trading away Kevin Durant and adding two less talented players. The Suns must enter another risky scenario of trading for another star to make this trade happen.
Orlando is still the team that would have to accept this trade since Phoenix’s side is more understandable to want better talent. The Magic are doubling down on believing in Wagner and Green as potential faces of the franchise if they pull the trigger on this move. Banchero’s potential is higher but trading him for multiple pieces could improve team success.
Paolo Banchero Linked To Phoenix Suns In Blockbuster Trade