The NBA trade rumors are coming out and some of them are being confirmed already and some need to be read between the lines.
The latest rumors were ignited by a report from Arizona Sports, specifically John Gambadoro, which stated that the Phoenix Suns were having discussions with the Sacramento Kings about acquiring DeMarcus Cousins. The claim was not dismissed outright because it came from a reputable source.
Now, it seems like no less than the Phoenix Suns GM Ryan McDonough has indirectly confirmed that there were indeed discussions. He could not give a direct affirmation and he actually explained his reasons why. His comments during an appearance in Arizona Sports 360 (h/t Hoops Rumors):
"What I will say, generally, is that we have conversations with every other team in the league about every elite player in the league," the Suns GM said. "Our interest level, obviously, differs on those players. ... This time of year I think some of the rumors get a little bit out of control. Some of them, there is a shred of truth to them. Some of them, there's no truth to them. And obviously, from the team side, it's not great when your own players are mentioned in a deal either individually or in a package, but that's part of the business."
Usually, an inability to directly deny a report is an insinuation that the claims may have actually happened. In some cases, even outright denials have been overturned. This is everything short of a confirmation, and he even explained why he didn't want to go public because "it's not great" to be involved in trade talks from a player's point of view.
Which leads us to the next point of why the Suns are rightfully attempting to keep it under wraps. The talks may have been exploratory in nature and by no means is the offer final-but it's a starting point.
There were doubts on the veracity of the rumors simply because TJ Warren and Alex Len are not even clear starters, and while it can be argued that the Kings were after the pick, the real value of that pick is still not determined. The Suns are not even the worst team in the league and adding Cousins to the mix will not achieve that.
Phoenix has to do better than that since Cousins, for all his faults, is the best center in the NBA at this time. It can change soon, but not now, not this season. At the very least, a star has to be sent in return. There are only two players in the Suns who come close to fit that description: Eric Bledsoe and rising star Devin Booker.
It can be argued that Booker is untouchable, but this is Cousins. Bledsoe is also someone that the Kings would need, but the argument is that he is also essential in keeping Cousins at bay because of their college connection. Then the Suns might also need to send someone like Marquese Chriss who has value.
Just how far the Suns will go is McDonough's decision. If he passes up a chance to grab a franchise-level talent and the Suns continue to struggle next season, his job might be in jeopardy.