Phoenix Suns: 3 bold predictions for 2018-19 NBA season
By Luke Swiatek
3. The Phoenix Suns will lead the league in 3-point percentage
This is starting off pretty boldly, because last season the Phoenix Suns were dead last in 3-point percentage at an abysmal 33.8 percent. Without checking (where are unpaid interns when you need them?), I’m pretty sure no team has ever gone from last to first in 3-point percentage before, or likely any major stat for that matter.
Still, the personnel is there to make the right change. Assuming that Elie Okobo starts at point guard for the time being (and using his Pau-Lacq-Orthez stats along with everyone else’s 2017-18 NBA stats), the Suns’ starting lineup would have an unweighted average of 38.3 percent at positions 1-4.
If Ayton can shoot too, the Suns will be able to play legitimate five-out basketball. Other players on the roster like Dragan Bender, Troy Daniels, De’Anthony Melton and Mikal Bridges all have at least a decent shot. If T.J. Warren gets traded for someone who fits better (or if his revamped stroke is the real deal), Josh Jackson could be literally the only rotation player who can’t shoot at least 35 percent from deep.
Who knows? By the end of the year (and with Igor Kokoskov’s tutelage), even Jackson could be stroking 3s from deep. Good personnel and good coaching is a recipe for success.