Phoenix Suns GM Brian Gregory emphasized Devin Booker's crucial role in the team's future, aligning with owner Mat Ishbia's vision.
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Jun 10, 2025; Scottsdale, AZ, USA; Phoenix Suns general manager Brian Gregory during an introductory press conference at the Verizon 5g Performance Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
PHOENIX â Phoenix Suns general manager Brian Gregory reinforced Mat Ishbiaâs message: Devin Booker remains the central figure in the franchiseâs future.
Jun 10, 2025; Scottsdale, AZ, USA; Phoenix Suns general manager Brian Gregory during an introductory press conference at the Verizon 5g Performance Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Speaking in the aftermath of Phoenixâs first-round sweep by the Oklahoma City Thunder, Gregory doubled down on Ishbiaâs public praise of Bookerâs season. He pushed back on a growing narrative that questions the All-Star guardâs long-term fit.
âI think thereâs so many things that [Booker] does on the court that isnât evaluated, or seen, or maybe even the impact hasnât been in the forefront,â he said during the clubâs end-of-season presser Thursday.
The timing comes as the clubâs abrupt postseason exit intensified discussions among fans and analysts, pointing to inconsistency from Booker. Long viewed as the franchise cornerstone, the guard has faced backlash for his performances in the four-game series and is often compared to other teamsâ cornerstones and how they perform in crunch time.
Brian Gregory stated that Devin Booker is the central figure in the franchise's future.
Devin Booker is viewed as the centerpiece of the team, crucial for their long-term success and strategy.
Mat Ishbia is the owner of the Phoenix Suns who supports the emphasis on Devin Booker's importance.
Brian Gregory made these statements during an introductory press conference on June 10, 2025.
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However, the organization isnât letting a four-game series determine how it views its star guard.
The comments help stabilize perception, as Bookerâs regular season was still strong enough to earn him an All-Star nod â as Gregory mentioned â which indicates he continues to compete at a high level. The Sunsâ general manager also acknowledged how Booker is selfless when it comes to making plays, not just racking up points but setting up opportunities for teammates to get their shots.
âWhen these other guys have career years, [Booker] has a lot to do with it.â
Mar 24, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) reacts against the Denver Nuggets in the second half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
A general managerâs backing, so publicly and right after the owner does the same, carries significant weight in how the organization views its club. Around the league, silence or even ambiguity from front offices after playoff losses can signal potential change. Gregoryâs comments offer clarity and a message to both the locker room and the marketplace that Booker isnât on the table and will remain a major part of the franchise.
By aligning with Ishbiaâs stance, Gregory reinforced that the organization has Bookerâs back and aims to quiet speculation before it continues to shape the offseason narrative.
Mar 3, 2026; Sacramento, California, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) reacts during the third quarter against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Justine Willard-Imagn Images
â[Booker]âs our centerpiece.â