This idea came from Bill Simmons suggestion in his latest podcast about the Suns trading Devin Booker. I just don’t see that happening so I thought that it clearly leaves KD as the odd man out. Keep in mind this deal carries with it a few future dilemmas.
The Hawks trade Murray, Hunter and 2 picks to Phoenix for KD. KD makes sense as they can compete with a core of Trae, KD and Jalen Johnson. The Hawks in this scenario avoid a complete rebuild which is unrealistic given their lack of picks. This is a way to continue forward with Trae and JJ and at least see how far they can take this team when they have both the talent and the fit right.
The Suns get a proper PG and a strong versatile wing to surround Booker with in the KD deal. Meanwhile they also convince Beal to waive his no-trade clause as he gets an opportunity to play with a Cleveland team that needs a go-to scorer who can play off-ball. They also trade Nurkic and in exchange they get Jared Allen, LeVert, and Strus. This second part of the deal gives PHX their ideal center as well as bench depth. This ultimately leaves PHX with about as ideal of a lineup to surround Booker with.
The Cavs get an ideal backcourt-mate to pair with Garland and a Center who’ll cost less moving forward. Trading Jared Allen may not seem like a logical move but financially it is seriously being considered along with Mitchell’s almost inevitable departure. This is to make way for Mobley who is expected to rise into a star role in the next 2 seasons. In the 2nd deal for the Cavs, they also trade Donovan Mitchell to the Nets for Bridges & Finney-Smith along with a future 1st via Philly. Similarly to the Suns, the Cavs now have one of the most complete lineups in the NBA. A more balanced backcourt, 3 & D wings, maybe the most promising 2-way 4 in the NBA, and some girth at Center.
Lastly, the Nets get Donovan Mitchell for Bridges and DFS. The Nets will likely be a rebuilding team but they are primed to be able to pay Mitchell the max as well as have a quicker turn-around. Not to mention, Mitchell gets to come home to NY, get paid and be on a team that’s built around him.