Phoenix Suns: 4 reasons why T.J. Warren should start over Josh Jackson
By Drew Zlogar
4. Spark off the bench
Something that can’t be argued between the two players, is the fact that Josh Jackson is more explosive, and has more of a spark-potential at the small forward position — a good reason to bring him off the bench.
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The Suns are heading into this season knowing that Brandon Knight and second round pick Davon Reed out for the foreseeable future due to injury, so Phoenix will need a player that is dominant enough to lead the second unit. Jackson could be that guy.
T.J. Warren has an expansive skill-set, but he doesn’t have that takeover factor. One of Suns management’s biggest hopes for Josh Jackson is that he can develop into being a star, similar to the level that Devin Booker has risen to in his first few seasons as a pro.
For now, Jackson has the uncertainty if that star power will show itself right away, so bringing him off the bench making sense for now. To go with Tyler Ulis and most likely Dragan Bender, the Suns’ second unit would be in need of a go-to player, and Jackson could fill that role. The expectations are not as high coming off the bench, which could be comforting to know as a rookie.
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Jackson will have his role be more dominant if he started off the bench this season with the Suns. The core pieces that will be surely starting in Eric Bledsoe, Devin Booker and Marquese Chriss will be seeing the most touches, and have the biggest roles. A good way for the Suns to experience some of the magic that Josh Jackson has the potential to bring would be by bringing him in with the second unit while those studs rest.