The Phoenix Suns have officially been the first team eliminated from the NBA Playoffs after being swept by the Oklahoma City Thunder in round one.
Considering Phoenix was knocked out by the reigning NBA Champions, there may be some leniency in terms of how much impact their opening round loss will have on their offseason plans.
At the same time, years of falling short of the ultimate goal could force the Suns to take a step back and re-evaluate their future, and if the team finally begins hearing offers for their superstar Devin Booker, the Washington Wizards could find themselves as the biggest beneficiary of a potential trade.
Wizards own draft swap rights with the Suns in 2028, 2030
The Wizards have been busy over the last couple of seasons, collecting talent and draft assets throughout their abundance of moves during their rebuild.
After sending Bradley Beal to the Phoenix Suns, Washington managed to secure swap rights with Phoenix for both the 2028 NBA Draft and 2030.
Reminder: The Washington Wizards still own draft swap rights with the Suns in 2028 and 2030.
— Ben Strober (@strobersports) April 28, 2026
Devin Booker, 29, is under contract through 2029, making record-setting annual money.
Also, the potential new lottery system may open more doors for Washington. pic.twitter.com/zl2m2T0T51
Obviously, the chance these picks convey to be anything game-changing for the Wizards will hinge on whether or not Booker will be in the Valley still.
If Booker is dealt, there's a real chance that the Suns will go through a stretch where they find themselves at the bottom of the NBA standings and if that is the case, Washington could be in an ideal spot to capitalize by adding yet another top prospect, even if they're back to competing in the Eastern Conference.
All that to say, the Wizards should be hoping that if the Suns plan to move on from Booker at any point, the time comes sooner rather than later.
Washington should be hoping for a Devin Booker trade
Washington could be perfectly set up to capitalize on the Suns collapse and it all starts with Booker.
If the Suns do consider moving on from their star guard, all signs point to Phoenix bringing in a decent haul, especially considering his age and skillset.
Nonetheless, if Phoenix plans to see it through with the 29-year-old leading the way, it runs the risks of Washington's draft rights not amounting to much at all, especially if the Suns can turn things around and remain in the playoff picture moving forward.
The Wizards should be hoping that Booker becomes the next star on the move, and whether that comes this offseason or at next year's NBA trade deadline, Washington will be in a good spot to come out on top of any deal unless Booker is moved for a player like Giannis Antetokounmpo, of course.
Add us as a preferred source on Google