Phoenix Suns: 5 options for pick No. 59 in 2018 NBA Draft

4. Gary Clark, PF — Cincinnati

A four-year senior, Gary Clark had a solid, understated career with the Cincinnati Bearcats. Though he never popped off the page, he improved his scoring average every single year and averaged at least one steal and one block per game each year there. In his final season, he posted 12.9 points, 8.7 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 1.4 steals and 1.2 blocks per game on .526/.435/.741 shooting splits.

Though he’s already 23 years old, Clark is an experienced prospect who’d bring a steady hand, rebounding and defense to a Suns team that badly needs all three of those things from the power spot. Even better, he’s projected to go to Phoenix at No. 59 by The Ringer.

It’s no secret Marquese Chriss and Dragan Bender have underwhelmed through their first two NBA seasons, and with the Suns looking to take the next step toward returning to the playoffs, having a more deft touch — even from a rookie — might be welcome. This all depends on what Phoenix does in free agency, and Clark would come nowhere near the starting job, but his gritty toughness down low and versatile defense would be welcome additions to the second unit.

Clark’s downfall (aside from his age) is he’s slightly undersized. At only 6’7″with a 6’10” wingpsan, he’s neither long nor tall enough to warrant consideration as a starter in this league. As a role player who does all the little things like setting hard screens, crashing the boards and hustling in transition, however, he could be very useful.

Clark is the kind of glue guy every team needs. The guy who knows his role, goes all out on the defensive end, doesn’t try to do too much and plays smart basketball. A wonky release means his 3-point efficiency might not translate to the pros, but Clark would have a lot to offer if he’s still up for grabs this late on draft night.