As the Phoenix Suns continue their incredible start to the season, one name on the roster stands out as an early trade candidate: Monte Morris. The Suns, sitting at an impressive 8-2, have shown depth and versatility, with new head coach Mike Budenholzer refining rotations and roles. Morris, however, finds himself on the outside looking in, a capable veteran in a team that may not have room for him.
Suns Primed to Make Mid-December Monte Morris Decision
Phoenix’s Strong Start Creates Tough Decisions
Phoenix’s opening stretch has been one of the league’s best, with the Suns winning close contests against quality opponents. This 8-2 run includes a nail-biting one-point victory over the Dallas Mavericks, adding to the team’s momentum and confidence. Budenholzer has instilled a resilient mindset in the group, leaning on a nine-man rotation that’s performed consistently well. Unfortunately, Morris remains outside this core group, as Coach Budenholzer’s lineup choices highlight who he truly trusts on the floor.
Budenholzer’s Trusted Rotation Leaves Morris Out
Morris has had limited opportunities so far, with Budenholzer choosing to keep him as the 10th man in the rotation. In some games, Morris has not played at all. Averaging fewer than 10 minutes per game, he sits behind key guards Tyus Jones, Bradley Beal, and Devin Booker. Additionally, rookies like Ryan Dunn have quickly earned Budenholzer’s trust and valuable minutes.
Morris, a capable point guard, hoped for more significant involvement but now finds himself on the bench, waiting for limited opportunities. Even when Beal missed time due to an elbow issue, Morris saw little increase in minutes. Instead, Budenholzer favored Dunn, who has started in two games this season. These early trends suggest Morris’s role will remain minimal as long as the Suns stay healthy.
A Valuable Backup with No Clear Path to Playing Time
Despite his limited role, Morris is still a valuable backup. If Jones or another key guard suffered an injury, Morris could step up as a capable floor general. His skill set and experience make him an ideal insurance policy. However, with the Suns enjoying good health and the guard rotation performing well, Morris remains outside of Phoenix’s rotation. Morris hasn’t done anything wrong on the court, but Phoenix’s stacked backcourt has crowded him out of a meaningful role. Beal’s absence did not shift Morris’s standing, and rookies like Dunn continue to thrive, signaling that Budenholzer sees his depth chart as set for now.
The Suns’ Mid-December Trade Options
Monte Morris is currently on a minimum deal, and by mid-December, the Suns can explore trade options for him. While Phoenix likely won’t get much in return, they could seek a second-round pick or trade him for a veteran in a different position. A team needing an experienced backup point guard might see Morris as a low-cost, reliable addition. For Phoenix, moving Morris could free up cap space and roster flexibility for potential future needs.
If the Suns maintain their health and performance, Morris’s role will likely remain marginal. Trading him would allow Phoenix to focus on players more integral to Budenholzer’s strategy. The Suns might target teams struggling with backcourt depth or in need of a reliable floor general, especially if the return bolsters their frontcourt or overall roster depth.
Monte Morris’s Suns Future Likely Lies Elsewhere
For now, Morris is a steady presence on the Suns bench, but the likelihood of him securing meaningful minutes is slim. His hope of a significant role faded with Jones’ late offseason signing. With rotations solidifying and the team thriving, Morris’ role appears minimal as the Suns continue to charge forward in the season.
Monte Morris’ time with the Suns may be short, but his professionalism and talent make him an appealing trade candidate. A midseason move would allow him the chance to contribute elsewhere, potentially benefiting a team with fewer guard options. For the Suns, who already look primed for a deep playoff run, trading Morris may offer flexibility without disrupting their winning formula.
The post Suns Primed to Make Mid-December Monte Morris Decision appeared first on Last Word On Basketball.