The Phoenix Suns made a bold move at the trade deadline, acquiring Royce O’Neale from the Brooklyn Nets in a three-team deal that also involved the Memphis Grizzlies. The Suns gave up four players and three second-round picks to land the versatile forward, who had been a key contributor for the Nets this season.
O’Neale, who is averaging 7.4 points, 4.5 rebounds and 2.8 assists in 24.5 minutes per game, has brought a new dimension to the Suns’ bench. He is a reliable shooter, a lockdown defender, and a smart playmaker who can fit in any lineup. He has also shown great chemistry with the Suns’ stars, especially Kevin Durant, who played with him in Brooklyn for half a season.
Since joining the Suns, O’Neale has helped them win six of their last seven games, including a statement victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on Sunday. He has also improved the Suns’ bench production, which was one of their weak spots before the trade. According to NBA.com, the Suns’ bench has a net rating of +9.4 with O’Neale on the floor, compared to -1.8 without him.
O’Neale’s impact has been praised by his teammates and coaches, who appreciate his unselfishness and professionalism. He has also earned the respect of the fans, who have welcomed him with open arms. O’Neale has expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to play for a championship contender, and has vowed to do whatever it takes to help the team succeed.
The Suns are currently second in the Western Conference, with a record of 38-15. They have a balanced roster, with a potent offense and a stingy defense. They have a big three of Durant, Devin Booker and Bradley Beal, who can score at will. They have a solid supporting cast, led by O’Neale, who can fill any role. They have a proven coach, in Monty Williams, who has instilled a winning culture.
The Suns are a legitimate threat to win it all this season, and O’Neale is a big reason why. He has transformed the Suns’ bench, and has given them an edge over their rivals. He is the perfect piece for the puzzle, and the Suns are lucky to have him..
Source: Conversation with Bing, 2/10/2024
(1) Royce O’Neale, David Roddy traded to Suns in 3-team deal. https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/39485924/sources-royce-oneale-david-roddy-traded-suns-3-team-deal.
(2) What Royce O’Neale Brings to Phoenix Suns – Sports Illustrated. https://www.si.com/nba/suns/analysis/what-royce-oneale-brings-phoenix-suns.
(3) Suns add Royce O’Neale in 3-team trade with Grizzlies and Nets. https://www.nba.com/news/suns-grizzlies-nets-trade-oneale.
(4) Suns’ Royce O’Neale: Headed to Phoenix – CBSSports.com. https://www.cbssports.com/fantasy/basketball/news/suns-royce-oneale-headed-to-phoenix/.