The Phoenix Suns and Devin Booker are about to be a problem
By Todd Dudas
The Phoenix Suns will be a problem
For most people, Devin Booker and the Phoenix Suns were the big story of the NBA’s restart bubble. Booker averaged 31 points, six assists, and five rebounds per game. Plus, he helped lead the Suns to a perfect 8-0 record in the bubble.
Their performance was punctuated by hitting a game-winner turnaround jumper over two defenders against the LA Clippers. After such a great performance in those eight bubble games, you can’t but wonder what the future awaits for the Suns.
How far could they go during the 2020-21 season?
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To begin, they have the 10th overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft. And a great coach in Monty Williams who has helped them learn how to win. Albeit it was a small sample size, but you can’t discount the results. In the bubble, you could also see how much Devin Booker has improved both as an individual player and a leader.
Deandre Ayton has also been an improved asset. While he hasn’t exactly become the team’s second superstar, he’s improved. Next year, he could emerge as a 20-point scorer for the Suns.
The Suns have talent. However, down the road, the coaching staff will have to bring in one or two key veterans. Imagine a Serge Ibaka being a part of this group? Or someone like a Jerami Grant that can shoot 3’s and block shots.
Another obstacle that this unproven young Suns team faced was close game losses. Out of 73 games played this season, they lost 10 of those games by four points or less. Even if this squad converted on five of them, Phoenix would have had a 39-39 record, which would have given them the final playoff spot in the West. Food for thought.
Next season, with all the moves made in the offseason by management, they could win 44-48 games. It will not be easy, because the Western Conference is stacked. You have two Los Angeles teams, the Jazz, Nuggets, Rockets, Oklahoma City, and some up and coming teams too.
In reality, the Phoenix Suns are a dynamic young and hungry team. In three to four seasons, with management making the right moves in the offseason, this could be a team that is competing for a top seed in the West. Perhaps even making a championship run.
Next. Indiana Pacers: Same problems, different year for the Pacers. dark
Don’t be surprised if the Suns make a run to the second round in the NBA playoffs next season. They have the talent to get the job done and the pieces in place to make it happen.