2018 NBA Power Rankings: The Warriors win the offseason; Lakers are back

CLEVELAND, OH - DECEMBER 14: Lonzo Ball #2 of the Los Angeles Lakers listens to LeBron James #23 of the Cleveland Cavaliers after the game at Quicken Loans Arena on December 14, 2017 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Cavaliers defeated the Lakers 121-112. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)
CLEVELAND, OH - DECEMBER 14: Lonzo Ball #2 of the Los Angeles Lakers listens to LeBron James #23 of the Cleveland Cavaliers after the game at Quicken Loans Arena on December 14, 2017 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Cavaliers defeated the Lakers 121-112. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)
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25. Phoenix Suns

The talent is certainly there, and the hope is that they can c continue to add to their young core with a veteran or two before training camp opens in a few weeks, but I just can’t see the Phoenix Suns making an honest push for the playoffs this season.

Not yet.

Deandre Ayton should help from the opening jump, and Josh Jackson‘s progression heading into year 2 should be tangible, but other than Devin Booker, I’m not sure anyone else on this roster is ready to play meaningful basketball in the grueling Western Conference.

The Suns will be better this season, potentially better than many expect (dependent on how much their young core progresses) but they’re still a year or two away from making a playoff push.