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2017 NBA Draft: Top 5 Phoenix Suns draft options

By Miles Jamieson

Apr 11, 2017; Sacramento, CA, USA; Phoenix Suns head coach Earl Watson during the third quarter against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center. The Kings defeated the Suns 129-104. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 11, 2017; Sacramento, CA, USA; Phoenix Suns head coach Earl Watson during the third quarter against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center. The Kings defeated the Suns 129-104. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 18, 2017; Orlando, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles forward Jonathan Isaac (1) during the first half in the second round of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at Amway Center. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 18, 2017; Orlando, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles forward Jonathan Isaac (1) during the first half in the second round of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at Amway Center. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

Jonathan Isaac

Although some draftniks would consider this a reach, Jonathan Isaac would be an excellent fit in Phoenix. Isaac is one of the biggest boom-or-bust prospects in this year’s draft. The Suns selected two frontcourt players in last year’s draft, and both were boom-or-bust prospects.

The jury is still out on Marquese Chriss and Dragan Bender, but they both have potential to develop into stars. Jonathan Isaac has greater potential than both Chriss and Bender, but is a project like both second year forwards.

Isaac is an extremely skilled defensive player. His ability to guard both forward positions will make him an ideal fit in Phoenix. He can’t defend guards full-time, but he has enough quickness and overall athleticism to switch any pick and roll. Isaac is a 6-foot-11 athlete with rim protecting abilities. Once he adds strength to his frame, he might be able to guard certain centers.

Isaac has offensive potential, but is a work in progress. He has ball-handling and passing skills that are rare for 6-foot-11 forwards. His jump shot is a work in progress, but he’s shown three-point shooting abilities.

If Isaac fully maximizes his potential, he could become a 6-foot-11 point forward with the ability to protect the rim. The only player with that skill set in today’s NBA is Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Isaac is already a better shooter than the Greek Freak.

Isaac has a lot of bust potential, but the Suns should be willing to swing for the fences with his talent. Isaac, Chriss, and Bender would make an interesting frontcourt with a lot of youth, athleticism, and potential.