Link:For the first time in three years, there appears to be more-than-casual trade talk involving Shawn Marion. That said, Marion appears likely to stay. The same cannot be said about Kurt Thomas, who appears to be the focus of the Suns’ attempt to shave payroll.
“I don’t think Shawn is going anywhere,” coach Mike D’Antoni said.
“I hope he doesn’t; there’s no desire on our part. But the names that are floated are the guys who are good. Everybody calls about Shawn because he’s great.
“Realistically, I don’t think so.
“I think we’ll try to keep the team together and compete one more time for the NBA championship.
“Without Shawn, that’s hard to do.”
D’Antoni seemed to agree with the idea that trading Marion, particularly for a draft pick, would send a message the Suns are “giving up” their title hopes.
“Unless that guy is an All-Star immediately … there’s definitely a hole there,” D’Antoni replied.
