Phoenix Suns: 2018-19 NBA season preview
Storyline 3: Youngsters need to prove something
Thanks to Booker’s surprising ascension, “The Timeline” has been accelerated a bit. If the Marquese Chriss trade told us anything, it’s that a failure to fit in with the Suns’ new direction could lead to roster changes pretty quick.
There are plenty of players facing that kind of pressure in 2018-19. The most obvious name of that group is Dragan Bender, the fourth overall pick from the 2016 NBA Draft who has largely underwhelmed through the first 125 games of his career. Though he’s only 20 years old, the small-ball potential with this roster means he needs to break out in year 3.
"“He thinks the game and sees the game pretty well for a young big, but he needs to take a step and be consistent because there is a lot of competition, especially on the wing, 2-4,” McDonough said. “We told Dragan and all our guys it’s an open competition, so whoever earns the minutes will play and whoever doesn’t, won’t.”"
Chriss got traded while Bender remained because of their fit with Ayton, according to McDonough. That means the wings on this roster need to find ways to mesh with Devin Booker, lest they get the axe as well.
Ariza is only in Phoenix on a one-year deal. Warren is the most logical trade candidate if the Suns target a point guard, but a revamped 3-point shot could change the equation, especially if Jackson has another up-and-down (but mostly down) year. Bridges may be a rookie, but he’s been labeled as one of the draft’s most NBA-ready prospects, and his 3-and-D value could be essential to what Phoenix is trying to build, especially if Jackson fails to meet his goals.
Then there’s the two rookies vying for minutes at point guard, along with the pressure facing Deandre Ayton as the No. 1 overall pick. Booker is already a stud, but these youngsters need to step up and step up quick as The Timeline tries to lurch forward.