For the first time in franchise history, the Phoenix Suns have the top pick in the NBA Draft. Already on the squad is a player on the precipice of exploding into superstardom in Devin Booker. Most NBA fans weren’t exposed much to Booker last season, but take it from me this kid is the real deal.
Speculation over who the Suns would select initially pointed toward Luka Doncic with the hiring of new Head Coach Igor Kokoskov. This because Kokoskov coached the youngster on his National team. But Deandre Ayton was also always an option especially because of proximity. Ayton played his one college season in Arizona a stone’s throw from the Suns’ facility.
So, when arrows began to point in Ayton’s direction it wasn’t that surprising. Like Doncic, Ayton has the potential to be a generational star. He projects in this scribes opinion to be as dominant as DeMarcus Cousins.
The Scoop on Ayton:
Deandre Ayton has all the top end offensive skills to make any team salivate over his selection. For the Suns who are void of much talent, his addition will immediately improve the Suns. Reportedly Ayton has already added 12 pounds since his season ended and inches to his vertical leap. The obvious issues for Ayton will be on the defensive side of the ball, particularly defending in space. However, given his work ethic, there is room to believe he can improve.
Full prospect preview: Deandre Ayton has the skill-set to be the next generational big man
Team needs:
- Frontcourt – both positions
- Point guard (depending on the decision with Elfrid Payton and plans for Brandon Knight in his return)
Free Agents:
- Alex Len (UFA)
- Elfrid Payton (RFA)
- Danuel House (RFA – 2-way FA)
- Alec Peters (RFA – 2-way FA)
Picks in 2018 NBA Draft:
First Round: 1st and 16th
Second Round: 31st and 59th