The Suns' Missed Opportunity: Haliburton Wanted to Join Phoenix

The Phoenix Suns have a history marked by ups and downs, and recent comments from Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton have brought to light a significant missed opportunity from the 2020 NBA Draft. Haliburton disclosed on the Numbers on the Board podcast that he and his agent reached out to the Suns, hoping to be selected with the 10th overall pick, emphasizing the need for a point guard to complement star Devin Booker.

Haliburton expressed his desire to join the Suns, stating, "We were calling Phoenix. Cause, like, 'Y'all need a PG.' I was trying to play with Book." However, the Suns opted to draft power forward Jalen Smith instead, a decision that has since been scrutinized by fans and analysts alike.

The Suns already had veteran point guard Chris Paul on their roster, making Haliburton's potential fit even more appealing. Many in the Suns community still reflect on the draft with disappointment, particularly given the promising trajectory Haliburton has shown since joining the NBA.

The missed chance to draft Haliburton has become one of the most discussed 'what ifs' in Suns history. While it's impossible to predict how his career would have unfolded in Phoenix, the combination of his talent and the existing roster could have significantly altered the team's future.

Haliburton's comments serve as a reminder of the long-lasting impact of draft decisions, particularly when the player expresses a clear desire to join the franchise. This situation underscores the complexities of team-building in the NBA and the painful reality of missed opportunities.