Goran Dragic has been one of the major driving forces behind the Phoenix Suns' resurgence the past two seasons. This year, although his numbers are slightly lower compared to his breakout year last season, the Slovenian is still putting up big numbers to keep his team's playoff hopes alive in a very brutal Western Conference postseason race.
In short, Dragic is blood and soul of the Suns' offense. Will that make him untouchable from trades? Sean Deveney of Sporting News thinks otherwise.
Dragic, who has an early termination clause in his contract that allows him to test the free-agency market next summer, has given the Suns' brain-trusts a second thought on keeping past the February trade deadline.
According to Deveney, the Suns would like to keep their starting point guard, however trading Dragic in exchange for a solid package shouldn't be ruled out because the Slovenian could bolt out without compensation in July.
"The Suns have loaded up on guards, and it seems that no matter how coach Jeff Hornacek handles the situation, someone is not going to be pleased.
While there has been nothing serious in terms of deals that have been close, as the Suns' hold on a playoff spot in the West slips away, there is a sense that they'll need to pull the trigger on something that can bring in the kind of perimeter-shooting big man they lost when Channing Frye left in free agency. Gerald Green (a free agent) is a trade possibility, but Dragic (also a free agent) would net a better return. The Lakers have wanted Dragic all year, but don't have much to offer."
Dragic, the 2013-14 NBA Most Improved of the Year winner, is averaging 16.3 points and 4.0 assists per game, which is slightly lower than last year's statistical line (20.3 points and 5.9 assists).
Many NBA insiders shared the same feeling that the inconvenience of the Suns three-man rotation at point guard spot (Dragic, Eric Bledsoe and Isaiah Thomas) could play a big role in the Slovenian's decision next summer. For that specific reason, the Suns may want to hammer a deal now or see their most valuable asset walk away for nothing.
