The Phoenix Suns are going to get busy late this year. It is likely that they will be searching the market for a guard who can perform the duties of Brandon Knight, who will be missing the entire 2017-18 NBA season. In July, Knight suffered an ACL tear in his left knee during an exhibition game. Last Thursday, the 25-year-old underwent a surgery.
Knight's absence is tough for the Suns since he is one of their top players, especially on offense. The former Kentucky Wildcat was the team's fourth best scorer during their previous campaign as he averaged 11 points per game.
His offensive output is the lowest so far in his NBA career. However, it is still a decent performance considering that he is sharing the backcourt with explosive scorers like Devin Booker and Eric Bledsoe.
Potential targets for Suns
Trying to replace Knight will be a difficult task for Phoenix. The trade and free agency markets are no longer that appealing unlike earlier in the offseason. Valley of the Suns suggested three names the team may want to consider if they are filling the void the 6-foot-3 guard left in the lineup.
First on the list was Shabazz Muhammad who last suited up for the Minnesota Timberwolves. Versatility is what Muhammad can contribute to the Suns. He can score from almost anywhere on the floor if given the opportunity and is capable of playing multiple positions.
Next is Tony Allen who is coming off a memorable stint with the Memphis Grizzlies. The best facet of Allen's game is his defense which is something Phoenix could use to be more competitive. Allen is also a veteran, which means he will be a leader in the locker room and might do some mentoring. The last possible option is Gerald Green who already played for the Suns.
Green is known for his dunks, but, over the years, the 31-year-old proved that he is an outside threat as well.
Another man down
Joining Knight on the Suns' injury list is rookie guard Davon Reed. Just like Knight, Reed too sustained a left knee injury and was required to undergo a medical procedure. The timetable given to the 22-year-old was six months.
Phoenix selected Reed with the 32nd overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft. The health setback is another bad news for the franchise because he was expected to immediately have an impact following an impressive show during the Summer League.
In his Summer League appearances, he averaged 14 points and four rebounds per contest.