Head coach Mike Budenholzer of the Phoenix Suns
As the Phoenix Suns continue to fine-tune their roster ahead of the 2024-25 NBA season, the team announced Monday that forwards Mamadi Diakite and Moses Wood have been waived. This decision narrows the Suns’ roster down to 18 players ahead of their preseason finale on Thursday.
Diakite and Wood were both on exhibit-10 contracts, which are training camp deals that can be converted into standard NBA contracts. However, neither player made enough of an impact to secure a full-time roster spot. Diakite, a four-year NBA veteran who has played 55 games for five different teams, was part of the Milwaukee Bucks’ 2020-21 championship team under current Suns coach Mike Budenholzer. Wood, who played college ball at multiple schools, most recently appeared for the Atlanta Hawks during this offseason’s NBA Summer League.
The Suns’ decision leaves the roster with 18 players, including three on two-way contracts who do not count toward the 15-man regular-season limit. Barring any last-minute trades or free-agent signings, Phoenix now has just one open spot on their regular-season roster, with veteran big man Frank Kaminsky in line to claim it.
Kaminsky, who is also on an exhibit-10 contract, will be looking to make his return to the Suns’ lineup after previously playing for Phoenix during the 2021-22 season. His familiarity with the team could give him an edge as the coaching staff makes final roster decisions.
G League Opportunities for Diakite and Wood?
While Diakite and Wood didn’t make the cut for Phoenix’s regular-season roster, both players could still find a role in the G League with the Valley Suns. The team already owns Diakite’s G League rights, having acquired them in a trade with the Westchester Knicks before bringing him to training camp. For Wood, joining the Valley Suns could provide the opportunity to develop his game and potentially work his way back into NBA contention.
Suns’ Roster Outlook
With the regular season fast approaching, the Suns are looking like a formidable team. Their roster includes superstars like Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and newly acquired Bradley Beal, as well as key role players such as Grayson Allen, Jusuf Nurkic, and Mason Plumlee. Young talent, including two-way players like Jalen Bridges and TyTy Washington Jr., add depth and potential to the lineup.
Kaminsky remains the final question mark as the Suns approach their October 22 season opener. Given his versatility and prior success with the team, it’s his roster spot to lose unless the Suns opt to make a last-minute signing or trade.
As Phoenix fine-tunes its roster for another deep playoff run, all eyes will be on the final decisions that shape the team ahead of their highly anticipated season opener.
