Phoenix Suns: 5 options for pick No. 32 in 2017 NBA Draft
1. Jordan Bell, PF, Oregon
Like Ojeleye, Jordan Bell’s potential fit in a small-ball NBA means he could very easily be off the board by the time the No. 32 pick rolls around. There’s a good chance some GM in the first round will be willing to take a chance on his defensive versatility, athleticism and strength.
If he somehow slides to No. 32, however, Phoenix should waste zero time adding him to its frontcourt, especially after being so impressed with him when he came to town for a pre-draft workout.
At 6’9″, this power forward coming out of Oregon was a huge part in the Ducks’ run to the Final Four. Bell compared his game to Draymond Green in that he can stay on the floor with small-ball linups, protect the rim and play within his role on the offensive end.
Most of Bell’s buckets in college came right at the rim, but he left Oregon as the school’s all-time leader in field goal percentage (63.6 percent shooting last year)…not to mention blocks.
Defense is his calling card, especially after averaging 10.9 points, 8.8 rebounds and 2.3 blocks per game in his junior year. He earned Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year honors and in five games in the NCAA Tournament, he delivered 12.6 points, 13.2 rebounds and 3.2 blocks per game while shooting 27-for-37 (73 percent) from the field to make up for the loss of Chris Boucher.
His statement game came in the Elite Eight against Kansas, as the big man recorded 11 points, 13 rebounds, eight blocks and four assists in the Ducks win.
He’s a tenacious rebounder, emphatic rim protector and potential small-ball 5 who would bring the kind of defensive mindset the Suns need, even from an energy player off the bench behind Len, Williams, Chriss and/or Bender.
His versatility, athleticism and lateral quickness would allow him to switch onto guards on the perimeter out of pick-and-rolls — a tantalizing prospect for the Suns, who could pair him with potentially versatile bigs like Bender and Chriss for the long-term.
Next: Phoenix Suns - 5 options at pick No. 4 in 2017 NBA Draft
In terms of second round fliers, the undersized Jordan Bell would be about as good as it gets. Fingers crossed he actually makes it to the Suns at pick No. 32.