Phoenix Suns: 5 Lessons From Week 1

4. Alex Len is the future

Again, this is another small sample size, but in Phoenix’s win over San Antonio, Alex Len showed why many believe he is the future of the center position for the Suns. He finished with 10 points, 11 rebounds and one block in 32 minutes, and even though his numbers don’t jump off the stat sheet, he was instrumental in altering a number of shots in the paint, allowing Phoenix to roll with its point guard hydra lineup.

With Thomas, Dragic and Bledsoe on the floor to close out the game, it was up to Len and Markieff Morris to hold down the boards and protect the paint, which they did admirably. Len had three defensive rebounds and two huge offensive rebounds in the final 4:35 of that game, and he also anchored a defense that badly needed rim protection while going so small.

Len only played 18 minutes against the Jazz the following night, but he still finished with a respectable four points, four blocks, three rebounds and two assists. Between his presence in the paint and improving game on offense, it might not be long before Len’s getting the starting nod over Miles Plumlee at center.

Next: Isaiah Thomas has found a home