Phoenix Suns: 2019-20 NBA season preview
By Adam Noel
Storyline 3: Going through the growing pains
This is yet another young Phoenix Suns team.
Although the group did acquire a number of veteran players to boost the overall roster, the core of the team revolves around the youth. While some projects have gone slower than others, there surely is some talent among the group.
An example being the success of first round selection Mikal Bridges from a season ago. The forward turned in one of the most promising seasons from his rookie class, displaying his versatility as both a defender and shooter. But not everyone can make such a seamless transition to the next level.
And like all good things, only time will tell.
That can be applicable in the growth of the young core Phoenix is developing. Most notably for this season in the form of Cameron Johnson and Ty Jerome. The Suns made separate trades to acquire each of the picks that were later used to select each. In the process the team also bypassed acquiring talented prospects such as Jarrett Culver and Brandon Clarke.
Whether or not the two can become viable rotation players is yet to be seen, but the future certainly looks bright. Johnson was among the top shooters in his draft and class and shot 45.7 percent from deep last season with North Carolina. Jerome led a balanced Virginia team to a national championship as the team’s starting point guard.
While neither is slated to start for the Suns this season, their impact off the bench will be a thing to keep an eye on as the year progresses. The hope being the Suns hit another home run in this draft class.