Phoenix Suns: 2016-17 First Quarter Grades

T.J. Warren

If not for the time he’s missed, T.J. Warren’s grade would probably be higher. But because of this mysterious “minor head injury” that’s kept him sidelined for Phoenix’s last nine and a half games, we have to take some points off.

That being said, Warren was probably the Suns’ most consistent player through the first three weeks of the season, averaging 17.7 points and 4.3 rebounds per game on 45.8 percent shooting. While his three-point touch (30.8 percent) is nowhere near last year’s career-high 40 percent mark, he’s still one of the Suns’ most effective scorers.

Warren has always been known for his nose for the basket, which makes him an obvious asset in Watson’s non-offense offense. He’s worked hard to improve on the defensive end as well, and he retained his starting job even after P.J. Tucker returned to the lineup.

This could be a legitimate breakout year for Warren if he returns soon and stays healthy the rest of the way, but just like last year’s season-ending foot injury held him back, so too has this unfortunate head injury limited his progress by keeping him out for nearly a month.

Grade: C+