Trade speculation has resurfaced around Phoenix Suns star Devin Booker, with a Western Conference rival reportedly ready to pounce. Golden State Warriors insider Tim Kawakami stated the Warriors would be "first in line" to trade for Booker if he ever became available, a claim made as the Suns handle a tough stretch, most recently falling 122-131 to the Oklahoma City Thunder on April 28.
Tim Kawakami, speaking on a Warriors podcast, was direct about his team's interest. "I think the Warriors like him too much if you ask me. But they love him. Steve [Kerr] loves him," Kawakami said. He noted the mutual respect between Booker and the Warriors' leadership, forged during their time together with Team USA in Paris.
Kawakami outlined a potential trade scenario, acknowledging Booker's long-term contract in Phoenix. "They say they're never trading him... But if that plays out in a poor way, they’ve traded every draft pick." he said. "I know the Warriors would be first in line saying, ‘we got three first round picks we can give you, and what else do you want?'"
The connections are logical but the timing is curious. Booker, Kerr, and Stephen Curry have publicly praised each other for years. Their bond strengthened during the Olympic run, fueling speculation. However, with Curry turning 38, the window for a Booker-Curry partnership in Golden State is narrowing rapidly.
This rumor also emerges against the backdrop of the Suns' recent form. Their last five games show a record of 1 win and 4 losses (LLLLW). They have dropped four consecutive contests, including that 122-131 defeat to Oklahoma City to close April. Prior losses were 109-121 and 120-107 to the Thunder, and a 119-84 blowout on April 19.
Suns owner Mat Ishbia has been unequivocal in his stance, stating on multiple occasions that Phoenix will never trade Devin Booker. This firm position from ownership makes any near-term move seem highly unlikely. The franchise views Booker as its cornerstone, the player to build around for the next decade.
Yet, the team's current trajectory invites outside questions. After a 135-103 win over the Thunder on April 13, the Suns suffered a heavy 101-73 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers on April 11. This inconsistent performance, especially on the defensive end, has been a topic of discussion. Fans can review the full schedule and upcoming challenges on our [fixtures](/fixtures) page.
For now, Booker remains the face of the Phoenix Suns. The team's immediate focus must be on correcting its on-court issues. Addressing perimeter defense and finding consistent scoring support for Booker and Kevin Durant are immediate needs as they look to halt this skid.
The trade talk is likely just noise, a product of the offseason rumor mill and another team's admiration. But in the NBA, situations can change. The Warriors' reported interest, coupled with their stash of future draft assets, ensures this storyline won't fully disappear until Booker either retires in Phoenix or the Suns' competitive window definitively closes. His performance, and the team's ability to win, will be the ultimate factors.
