4. Tyler Lydon, SF/PF, Syracuse
Adding a stretch-4 isn’t exactly high on Phoenix’s to-do list, especially since they’ve already got Jared Dudley and just drafted Marquese Chriss and Dragan Bender to eventually fill similar roles. However, if Tyler Lydon actually slips past the first round, there are worse options the Suns could take at No. 32.
Coming out of Syracuse, this 6’10” power forward shot above 47 percent from the field in each of his two seasons with the Orange, include 40.5 percent and 39.5 percent from three-point range. As a sophomore, Lydon averaged 13.2 points, 8.6 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 1.4 blocks and 1.0 steals per game.
His quick, high shot release should translate beautifully to the next level, and moves well off the ball, making him a terrific option as a spot-up shooter or pick-and-pop threat.
However, for all his passing ability, Lydon is not very capable off the dribble and he’ll have to get much stronger to guard NBA power forwards, since he lacks the lateral quickness to contain wings at the next level. Outside of Syracuse’s zone, he’s unlikely to be much of a rim protector or rebounder either.
The Ringer‘s mock has the Suns taking Lydon at No. 32, and if he can get better at finishing when he meets resistance in the paint, add some muscle and round out his game a little bit, he could be a useful stretch-4 providing long range shooting off Phoenix’s bench.