Phoenix Suns: 5 Takeaways From 2016-17 Media Day

4. Booker, Bender Will Play The 3

With P.J. Tucker‘s back injury, a litany of guards on the roster and the Suns intrigued by the potential versatility of rookie Dragan Bender and Marquese Chriss, there’s going to be opportunity at the 3-spot early in the season.

T.J. Warren has the best opportunity to lay claim to that starting position while Tucker is sidelined, but the Suns also believe both Devin Booker and Dragan Bender may see time at the 3 as well.

"“I think those guys will get opportunity,” McDonough said. “If you look at our roster and you look at our depth chart — especially with P.J. Tucker coming off back surgery — we do have some minutes potentially available at the 3 and the 4. Dragan and Marquese have been great all summer, they’ve worked extremely hard.”"

McDonough specifically mentioned talking with Watson about Booker playing the 3 since there’s a bit of a logjam in the backcourt.

Despite the defensive concerns, it would likely be a move used in a pinch more than anything else. Bledsoe was optimistic about Booker’s ability to undergo another potential trial by fire on the wing.

"“Devin’s definitely a 2-guard, but at the same time you can’t limit yourself,” Bledsoe said. “It’s sacrifices that have to be made and Devin probably gotta play some small forward this season. That’s going to improve his game. He’s gonna guard some of the best small forwards and he’s one of the up-and-coming 2-guards, so they’ve gotta guard him too.”"

If it prevents some potential tension with Brandon Knight as they both compete for the starting shooting guard spot, that’s one avenue the Suns could take. At 19 years old (soon to be 20), Booker believes he’s ready for the challenge as well.

"“Wherever they put me, I’m fine with,” he said. I feel like I am [ready], I’m not going to back down from anybody. I know the 3 is a tough position in this league, LeBron [James], Carmelo [Anthony], Kevin Durant, but I don’t back down from any challenge.”"

However, the skill set of the 7’1″ Bender has Phoenix considering him for spot minutes on the wing as well.

"“We understand Dragan can come in and hit key threes and make key steals,” Watson said. “He’s going to continue to get better, so you can’t really put a limit on what he can do because I never want to hold him back. If he’s ready to take that next step — whatever that is — we empower that step.”"

Bender and Booker won’t be small forwards in their careers, but with Booker growing another inch over the summer and minutes available at multiple positions, don’t be surprised to see them play out of position a bit during a transitional year.