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Phoenix Suns Offseason Guide
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1 year agoon
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JoshuaPhoenix Suns Offseason Guide
Phoenix Suns Offseason Guide
This is the official Phoenix Suns guide that will break down everything from Monty Williams to Chris Paul, to Deandre Ayton. While many have been speculating and calling for the Suns to trade Ayton, keep/trade Paul, or fire Monty and James Jones; this comprehensive guide will give you a breakdown of all the scenarios, which ones will most likely happen, and where Phoenix will go from there.
This guide will begin with the front office and coaching staff, then it will move into topics revolving around the players.
The state of the front office, James Jones:
While I believe James Jones, acting general manager of the Phoenix Suns, is safe and not going to be fired by owner Mat Ishbia, the speculation has grown since losing to the Nuggets in six games. The Game 6 blowout was hard to watch for Suns fans and it grew into questioning both Monty Williams and James Jones.
This has also led to people speculating Isiah Thomas, who is a friend of Mat Ishbia, to come in as the guy to replace James Jones. Would it be both titles Jones currently possesses? Potentially, however, Phoenix has no desire to shake up their team that much.
As mentioned previously, my opinion is the Suns will keep James Jones because you can’t be reactionary after one season. Knowing what we know about the Suns in this season, it would be unfair to fire Jones all because they got booted in the second round.
While frustrating as it has been for the past two seasons, James Jones single-handedly turned out this organization and made them into a playoff-contending team. His brilliance reshaped the future of this once-hopeless organization.
In terms of the Kevin Durant trade…
The Kevin Durant trade was a trade made by Mat Ishbia, Ishbia decided to make the trade and be bold. While it remains to be seen how this trade unfolds, in terms of their chances of winning a championship, many felt as though James Jones pushed this trade. However, that is simply not the case.
Did James Jones want a generational talent? Most likely, but he was hesitant on trading away Mikal Bridges – the current star player for the Brooklyn Nets.
Here is what Mat Ishbia said about Kevin Durant coming to the Suns and how that’ll affect Phoenix:
“Hoping with Kevin on the team, with all our other great players, we can do great things this year and next and beyond. Excited to have him here, and the whole team is ready to play hard for the rest of the season and compete.”
I asked Ishbia that question on February 16th, 2023.
Conclusion:
Expect James Jones not to be fired and remain here for the foreseeable future; understand that Ishbia knows the talent and skill Jones holds, and he wouldn’t want to jeopardize his team for his friend – who originally played in the NBA and managed a team before.
Ishbia is not a power-trip owner, he will make the right decisions. With that said Jones will remain a part of this Phoenix organization.
Monty Williams has been fired, where do the Suns go next?
The head coach of the Los Angeles Clippers, Ty Lue, has been in hot water since being eliminated in the first round. Injuries played a role in them being eliminated in five games, however, many are wondering if Lue is on the chopping block next.
If that is the case, then expect Mat Ishbia and the Suns to try to lure him away from California and into Arizona. Per Marc Stein, the Suns will try to do just that as he is one of their main candidate targets.
It was reported during the evening of Saturday, May 13th, Monty Williams and the organization parted ways. While it is a bummer to have such a great man depart the franchise, Phoenix must focus on its future and its aggressiveness in trying to find a new head coach.
The Suns could go down these possible routes for a new head coach:
Ty Lue
Mat Ishbia is looking for a head coach that can take the Suns to the next level, to the championship level. Monty Williams, despite his track record of being a winner, has been seen as a coach who is very good and a great guy. However, not seen as a coach that can wield his team into The Finals and win it all.
Lue, on the other hand, was that guy and can still be that guy. Give him a healthy (and complete) roster, with two healthy superstars (Kawhi Leonard and Paul George battled injuries constantly during his three years with L.A., and you have yourself a championship team.
Ishbia had an up-close view of what Lue can do and must have seen something special from him as they are winning to go all-in financially and play it a little more risky to get their next coach. Lue is a proven winner who has not lost his touch, he can command the locker room into being a championship locker room.
Ty Lue will be pursued mightily by the Phoenix Suns, expect that to happen. CourtSideHeat currently projects Lue to be the favorite to land Phoenix’s head coaching job.
Nick Nurse
Like Ty Lue, Nurse won a championship as a head coach when he did it with the Toronto Raptors back in 2019. Nurse and Leonard was a great example of a head coach and superstar player duo, which took the league off-guard as to how good they truly were.
Nick Nurse has been seen as a guy who could command this team into winning their first championship in franchise history. Not only does he have the pedigree, but his overall experience and willingness are what is going to separate Nurse from the rest of the NBA coaches.
Expect the Suns to highly consider giving him a couple of interviews and potentially the job. Nick Nurse is a highly skilled coach that has won two championships in his career, the first one being in the G-League and the second one coming in the NBA with Toronto.
It can also be said that Nurse had a tougher ring because he was a rookie with Kawhi Leonard coming to the team for his time; not a lot of familiarity in the locker room at that time, to say the least.
Adrian Griffin
This may be a wildcard of a candidate for the Suns, but let’s say Phoenix entertains the possibility of Griffin becoming their next head coach.
What makes Griffin so interesting as an up-and-coming head coach is his ability to develop players and get them on the right track. Depending on the views Mat Ishbia holds for the draft, if the Suns were to be involved in developing players more then that would be right up Griffin’s expertise.
Also, if the Suns decide to keep Deandre Ayton (will talk about that later in this guide) then Griffin can try to develop him further (even though he isn’t exactly in the beginning stages of his NBA journey) to see if Deandre Ayton can perform better and give better effort/quality to his game.
While a wildcard and almost a bold move for the Suns, it would be interesting to see Phoenix go down because this potential head coach would suit the Suns almost perfectly.
Disclaimer: Mat Ishbia, given his win-now mentality, might not go down this route if comparing this route to the two other routes mentioned before Adrian Griffin. Wouldn’t 9/10 people take the more experienced, already won a championship guy over the new guy that needs time to adjust?
Is the veteran on the move?
Mat Ishbia is in attack mode, he wants the Suns to win now or to have every opportunity to win a championship, but does that mean moving on from Chris Paul?
Paul revived his career after many were counting him out when he was with the Houston Rockets, had a solid run with the Oklahoma City Thunder, and now is with the Phoenix Suns. With that being said, his old age has finally caught up to him.
The 38-year-old could be traded or released by the Suns if they deemed it necessary to remove him from the team. Could Phoenix go younger and not want to finish the contract of CP3? Most definitely, and there are most definitely big-time names out there the Suns are eyeing up.
Fred VanVleet (Toronto Raptors), Terry Rozier (Charlotte Hornets), and Kyrie Irving (Dallas Mavericks) have all been linked to the Suns and them being a possibility to joining The Valley. Rozier and Irving would both be through trades, whereas VanVleet would come in free agency.
Here are the possible routes the Suns could choose regarding Chris Paul:
Chris Paul remains with the Suns and Phoenix builds the roster so that he can remain a starter
This possibility could be explored as Paul is a positive influence in the locker room with valuable experience that is gained through years of playing and being one of the greatest point guards of all time. Paul has some gas left in the tank, the organization could get another season out of him as a starter.
The biggest challenge to this route is that the Suns will have to build a fully compatible roster that fits the needs of Chris Paul, which is easier said than done. Not only does the starting line have to play exceptionally well without worrying about Paul, the same goes for the bench.
Phoenix needs a consistent, reliable backup point guard that can be a younger version of Chris Paul. If they can transform this team from the bench going up, then this route could happen.
Again, if Ishbia wants to be loyal to Paul then the clear answer to getting better is allowing the team to flourish without worrying about Paul come May.
Chris Paul remains with the team, but he becomes the backup point guard
Due to his age and where he is mentally and physically in his career, being a backup point guard is not the worst idea for both side. Paul averaged 13.9 points, 8.9 assists, and 1.5 steals per game this season; those are very respectable numbers that can translate well on the bench.
Chris Paul’s role with the Suns in this scenario is him being a mentor for younger players, allowing the first line to flourish and bring back up the second line to make the Suns stronger and more efficient, which will provide so many bonuses for the Suns – which is something they lacked in this season if talking about the bench.
The only downside to this route is the money side involving Chris Paul, while the contract’s third year is not fully guaranteed, he is still making $15.8 million for the 2023-24 season. Some will find that expensive for an aging, backup point guard. But, this question needs to be asked, will Mat Ishbia go deep into the luxury tax to keep Paul here and his valuable pros?
If the Suns are forced to do the full $30 million, which wouldn’t be the case, then it would be a no-brainer and they will have to cut loose the aging future Hall of Famer. As at what point does it become too much financially for a backup point guard? Chris Paul is absolutely one of the best, but not at that price tag to be back up and that old.
However, taking money out of the equation (living in a perfect world where money doesn’t dictate how things are operated), would be a win-win for both sides. Chirs Paul finishes as a member of the Phoenix Suns, the team retains his skills and his value as a member of this roster, and it could lead to bigger dynamics the Suns could tap into.
The Phoenix Suns cut ties and buys him out of his existing contract to be free to any team that wants him
Mat Ishbia could buy him out of his current contract or he could try to trade him away. It has been reported on numerous occasions, dating back to this past season’s trade deadline, the Suns were shopping Chris Paul and almost struck a deal to trade him away. This time around, reports are coming out in full force saying the Suns will be “aggressively” shopping him.
Either way, Phoenix could decide to move on. This appears to be the most likely scenario out of the bunch; given the fact he is aging, he isn’t the same Chris Paul who joined the Phoenix Suns, and that contract is unbearable as a backup. It hinders the flexibility the Suns have to make impactful moves and avoid completely going into rebuild mode.
It should be noted his stats have seen a decrease, which is the very opposite higher-ups want to be seen from a starter and locker room general.
If the Suns traded Paul, what could they get for him?
Pheonix will not get a first-rounder or a superstar for Chris Paul, even if they included their draft picks. As of right now, Phoenix’s draft capital is horrific after making the Kevin Durant trade with Brooklyn.
The most you could get for Chris Paul, at this point in his career, is a bench player that has value to the Suns. For example, if the Timberwolves did a deal with the Suns, they would add Mike Conley to that deal to get the likes of Josh Okogie, a draft pick, and Chris Paul.
While the deal would have to expand on both sides to make it worth each other’s wild, Minnesota (even the Lakers) could try to have some fun and trade for the future Hall of Famer.
Conclusion:
Chirs Paul will likely be traded, why? Because the Suns want to get something in return and maybe the aggressors this time around in the offseason, which may include multiple players to get a CP3 deal done. Again, Minnesota could see Deandre Ayton, a high-valued pick, and Chris Paul go to Minnesota for Phoenix to receive Karl-Anthony Towns and maybe a point guard with some value attached to his name.
So, in the end, Chris Paul will most likely be traded as the Suns are in attack mode and want to be as aggressive as possible to compete for a ring.
Want to be aggressive? Trade Deandre Ayton…
Monty Williams soured on Deandre Ayton after the 2021 NBA Finals, it poured over till the final days of Monty Williams’s run with the Suns. Many believed Ayton to be on the move if Monty stayed for the ride, however, since Monty is no longer here, does that mean Ayton is staying?
Deandre Ayton never fitted in the system provided by Williams, Monty’s system was made for a traditional big-man – not necessarily tailored to the skillset of Deandre Ayton. Given how Deandre Ayton has played, responded to the criticism, etc, there is a possibility the Suns outright trade him.
Would it be far-fetched to say the Suns are done with Ayton? Not, but, while looking at possible routes of trading him, maybe a new head coach is what Ayton needs to shine bright.
Coaching first, Ty Lue:
Let’s say the Suns lured Ty Lue out of Los Angeles, would he make Deandre Ayton a better player? Systems matter and coaches believing in that specific player matters; to say the least, Lue would be a motivator and strategist to pushing Ayton to the next level.
What people saw in Los Angeles was a great sample of what could be done in Phoenix, obviously having better (and healthier) talent. Look how much better Ivica Zubac played under Ty Lue than Luke Walton (former head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers), why was that?
It was because Zubac was able to be traditional and fit his role through the coaching of Lue, he did the same thing with Kevin Love when he was with Cleveland. Lue knows how to work with big men and make them more valuable than their previous worth, which is why Phoenix is targeting him.
I believe Phoenix would benefit by keeping Ayton if, and only if, Ty Lue can guarantee some noticeable changes in Ayton’s game. Can he make him more physical, have more effort, and be the top guy that was selected first in his draft class? Important questions that need important answers.
Let’s say coaching won’t change Ayton, then trade him:
While the value of Deandre Ayton has gone down, multiple teams (Mavericks and Bulls) have been interested in Ayton and are willing to entertain potential deals to acquire the former number-one pick.
There is still value and if the Suns want to shake things up and they believe it is time to move on from Ayton, then their best course of action would be to trade him. Sadly, Phoenix was backed into a corner when they decided to pay him the extension. Couldn’t let him walk for nothing in return, so this could be their chance to get rid of him and get someone else.
You need a big man that is more capable of being physical, and dynamic, and a proven center that isn’t afraid to defend a larger or craftier opponent. Three-point shooting, if embracing the NBA’s new culture, would be ideal as well. I would recommend the Suns obtain Christian Wood, a player misused by Dallas.
It can be a sign-and-trade deal that ships Ayton to the Mavericks and Christian Wood to the Suns; while the deal would be more sophisticated than a player-for-player transaction, it sets up the basis of what the main meaning of this trade is supposed to be.
Should the Suns try to trade him for real?
I believe the Suns are tired of Deandre Ayton and are ready to move on from him, the same can be said with Chris Paul. Mat Ishbia is a smart man, same with James Jones, and they will do whatever it takes to win a championship.
Even if that means getting rid of their former number-one pick, he hasn’t panned out the right way so it isn’t affecting them too much. As long as they get good assets/pieces in return. Christian Wood is my number target if I were the Suns, he would fit the system of the Suns and fit right in with the starting unit.
Will the Suns pull the trigger? Most likely, in my opinion, but they will be fielding all different kinds of offers and will weigh them until the draft and then make their move. Sometimes cutting ties with a “core” player has to be made so a team doesn’t sacrifice everything for a mediocre player.
What will the Suns do with their bench?
- Torrey Craig
- Bismack Biyombo
- Josh Okogie
- Damion Lee
- Saben Lee
- Darius Bazley
- Terrence Ross
- T.J. Warren
These eight players are going to be free agents as the Suns no longer have them on their payroll. It is being speculated majority of these players won’t be returning; names such as Damion Lee, Saben Lee, TJ Warren, Darius Bazley, and Terrence Ross.
However, could that list change depending on the makeover Ishbia gives the Suns and who he hires as a coach? Definitely, but let’s focus on fixing the Suns in the best possible way, first involving the bench.
Point Guard:
- Cam Payne
- Dennis Smith Jr.
I believe having Smith Jr. and Cam Payne will be a huge boost to the Suns’ bench regarding point guard, why? Because Phoenix can experiment with the rotations and allow the third and second line of point guards to be interchangeable, which can bring better matchups and chemistry for the Suns.
Dennis Smith Jr. has had glimpses of being that rotational guard for a team, currently the Hornets, and I believe he can transition well to playing for the Suns.
When he is getting quality minutes and action, Smith Jr. can get a team 10/5 per game. Cam Payne and Chris Paul average around those numbers.
Shooting Guard:
- Cam Johnson
- Seth Curry
In an ideal world, Phoenix getting back Cam Johnson would be incredible as he provides a level of shooting that was desperately needed this season on the bench. Same if Phoenix acquired Seth Curry, he is a shooter that can be the bench guy for Phoenix.
Both will be able to handle the bench load and make sure the Suns’ momentum doesn’t get lost when Devin Booker and Kevin Durant come out of the game – if talking about scorers and keeping momentum in their favor.
Getting Johnson away From Brooklyn will be difficult as he will command a huge payday from Brooklyn and other interested teams. Pheonix may not be able to contend with offering him a huge contract, it all depends on what they do with their roster – mainly Ayton and Paul.
Getting Curry will be easy, his market isn’t as big as Johnson’s market. We already know how well Johnson fits in with the Suns, but what about Curry? His main skill is shooting the ball, shooting threes, he will fit in with Phoenix as this organization desperately needs three-point shooting off the bench.
Small Forward:
- Jae Crowder
- TJ Warren
While it is highly improbable the Suns will be able to win back over Crowder, given their current relationship status, having him back on this team will be a huge boost to the bench.
Crowder is that scrappy, gritty-gutty player that will get a team those man-like rebounds and hit those three-pointers in the clutch. He is a skilled veteran that saw success with the Suns, never rule it out as Phoenix and Crowder will be huge for their bench.
With Crowder being signed, Phoenix can bring back Warren. Personally, I like Warren and he showed glimpses of his bubble days. I would re-sign him, allow him to continue to come off the bench, and have him work alongside Crowder.
Warren is the type of player to give a team those buckets when it is important, he will play hard (with great effort), and make his minutes count. Let’s say the Suns keep Josh Okogie as the starting small forward, or get someone better than Okogie, can you all imagine how the Suns will operate with these three men controlling the frontcourt?
So much action will be happening as Phoenix will never be lacking in the department of scoring, rebounding, and hustle plays.
Power Forward:
- Torrey Craig
- Jalen McDaniels
Both McDaniels (76ers) and Craig (Suns) would be great additions and keeps for this bench, how so? Both can provide scoring and rebounding; plus, both their defensive skills are pretty good to make the bench isn’t sliding, or when the Suns are trying to get back into a game that can happen.
Both players have that competitive edge which was seen throughout this entire season; something the Suns pride themselves on and want to see in all their players, big or small.
Not only are the Suns filling out the roster, but they are doing it with a purpose and it being impactful. Plus, the contracts wouldn’t be that expensive at all. Again, depending on what they do with Ayton/Paul/Shamet, Phoenix could have the potential of getting these two on board.
Money-wise, they fit right in.
Center:
- Thomas Bryant
- Jock Landale
The Suns need physicality and the ability to play on both sides of the ball, amongst many other qualities in their centers. With that said, why not have Landale and Bryant on the bench?
Jock Landale has shown to the Suns and their fanbase that he can play ball, be physical, be consistent, and have a game that can disrupt some of the biggest names in the game. He’s a solid athlete that brings tremendous qualities to this bench. The same goes for Thomas Bryant.
Bryant’s game has been evolving and he has shown glimpses of being that full-time backup that can bring considerable force/impact to the Suns’ bench. His low-post game has been evolving, the paint is pretty much his when he plays, and he has durability like never seen before in a player like him.
He can score on the move, just like Landale, as both players complement each other nicely. The Suns would be copying and pasting a slightly better Jock Landale if they signed Thomas Bryant.
Conclusion:
In a perfect world, not caring about the unknowns surrounding money and players coming and going, that would be my well-constructed bench. It provides maximum relief to the starting unit as offense and defense will be covered. Many two-way players will be added that can stretch the possibilities of what Phoenix can do, which is something they lacked severely during this past season.
Also, the players I want to bring in will give the Suns a new level of defense that they desperately needed. Offensive players will always be found, but can you find good defensive players? Sometimes yes and sometimes no, which is the tricky part. However, in the end, these players I have selected complement the Suns’ needs in more ways than you could count for.
This bench, in my opinion, is a better bench than what the Suns had back in 2021 during their incredible run to The Finals.
Real quick, should the Suns trade Landry Shamet?
Undoubtedly, yes. They should 100% be looking to explore possible trade options for Shamet, I do not believe in the value of Shamet. He is not worth the extension he was given in 2021, with that said, teams may take on the contract and his defense.
Sadly, his defense couldn’t make up for his inadequacies as his flaws offensively were killing the Suns. Sure did he give them good runs offensively? Yes, but that was very rare and limited. There was no trade-off of starting or giving Shamet minutes; he was given minutes because of how short-handed and lack of depth on their bench.
For most Phoenix could get for Shamet, fans are looking at possible second-rounders. Maybe a mediocre rotational player, if a team has to offset the trade with another contract, but you are more looking at the picks.
James Jones does not value the draft as others do around the league, we do not know how Mat Ishbia values the draft. So this Landry Shamet trade, and overall shopping him, will be made or break on how serious Phoenix is about the trade. Do they care about draft picks and building through that process?
In conclusion, Shamet will be traded as his value with Phoenix has been lost and many are recognizing it. They’ll try to flip him for picks or for a very mediocre player that could be used for depth, or they’ll just cut that player after the trade.
Concluding this guide:
This guide will now be wrapping up as we’ve gone through the front office, coaching possibilities, possible routes with Deandre Ayton and Chris Paul, who to sign to make their bench better, and Landry Shamet. This guide was meant to show you all options available to the Suns, which ones were most likely, and how to rebuild this team from the bench going up.
Deandre Ayton and Chris Paul mock trades will be made in the future, this guide was meant to show you how these puzzle pieces could (or could not) fit in their massive puzzle.
The Suns have a lot of decisions to make as they do not want to rebuild, in fact, it is the exact opposite. Mat Ishbia wants to win, same with James Jones, so they have no interest in settling for mediocrity or rebuilding for a couple of seasons. Nor would the fans of Arizona want to see the Suns rebuild again and be a disappointment.
More guides will be coming out this offseason regarding many other teams; for example, the Bucks, Knicks, and 76ers will all be getting their own offseason guide. Even though this guide could be the greatest guide of them all, which is fair to say given the state of the Phoenix Suns.
People should expect the Suns’ rumors and reports to start coming out as the week progress, we could see some big moves happen during or after The Finals.
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Why Tyus Jones Is The Point Guard The Suns Always Needed
Published
1 month agoon
July 31, 2024By
JoshuaThis past Saturday, fans of the NBA and the Phoenix Suns saw the shocking news that Tyus Jones would be signing with Mat Ishiba’s organization. This was a move that many felt was very improbable due to money, but Phoenix somehow convinced him to take a one-year, $3.3 million deal.
Jones has been a very underrated, underappreciated point guard in the past couple of seasons. There is no bias to that statement, it is simply a fact. He’s only 28 years old, is a 12/7 player, and has propelled his career from being a backup to a full-fledged starter.
While what I have listed is all well in good, not taking away anything, but how does he help the Phoenix Suns? How does Jones bring this team together and much better than what they were last season? Is he their PG savior?
All those questions and more will be answered below.
The skills Tyus Jones possesses:
Ball Protection
He became a full-time starter with the Washington Wizards last season, and it was one of the most impressive point guard seasons I’ve seen in a while. Particularly in this area, why? Jones recorded 485 assists against 66 turnovers; that’s a 7.35 ratio, which is best mark in NBA history.
To provide more context of how stunning that is, only talking last season, Jones was first and Chris Paul was fourth. Paul’s assist to turnover ratio was 5.1, the Point God himself wasn’t close to Jones. It’s extraordinary to dish out seven passes before committing a singular turnover.
Was it a fluke? Absolutely not, here are some more numbers: in 2018-19, he set an NBA record with a 6.96 AST/TO ratio. Later, in 2021-22, Jones topped it with a 7.04 AST/TO ratio. As his minutes and exposure to the court grew, so did his numbers and consistency to the game.
Also, he’s led the league in AST/TO ratio for five straight season. He’s no joke, an absolute stud playmaking-wise.
Pushing The Pace
The Suns have found a happy median between the erratic play of Cam Payne and the slow play of Chris Paul. Jones won’t take 10 seconds to get up court and get a play ready, and he won’t rush it by sprinting with the ball up the court in 1.2 seconds to make a bad decision.
Pushing the pace will keep Phoenix flowing in a positive direction on fast-breaks and bringing the ball up the court on usual inbounds. What he did in Memphis with the Grizzlies was absolutely fantastic, and was a sizable chunk of his game.
In the final season with Memphis, they were fifth in pace (possessions per 48 minutes), which featured him being second in fast-break points. About 20% of his offense accounted from scoring on fast-breaks and transitions.
Jones has played in different styles of tempos and can adjust very well to head coach Mike Budenholzer’s tempo. His excellence on pushing pace has been seen through his overall basketball IQ and how he handles the ball as a primary facilitator and floor general.
Shot Creation & Ball Handling
As a full-time starter, fans have seen his shooting performances on the rise. In 2022-23, Jones averaged 10.3 points on 43.8% from the field. In 2023-24, Jones averaged 12.0 points on 48.9% from the field.
His ball handling skills has allowed him to create shots, create space, and get pretty good looks. That is why he’s able to have such a high percentage from the field; it should also be noted that the more he dribbles the more efficient he is scoring-wise.
After taking two dribbles then the shot, Jones converts it at a 51.6% success rate. Let’s say it’s three or more dribbles, he’s still knocking them down at a 49.1% success rate. The model of today’s NBA is to catch-and-shoot or take one dribble only, but Tyus Jones is completely different.
This is what has made him so effective and dangerous around the perimeter and beyond the arc. It is visually and statistically proven. These two features of his game has sent him from being a backup trying to prove himself to a full-blown starter that can lead a team in a positive, unselfish way.
How does Tyus Jones help the Phoenix Suns?
If anyone has lived under a rock for the past season when it comes to Phoenix basketball, let me painfully fill you in on the horrors this team had to go through. Mind you, I’m a diehard Suns fan, so this kills me.
Anyways, the Suns were the most hideous team with no continuity or consistency as an offensive group due to having no point guard that led to high turnovers and defensive breakdowns. We collapsed in the third quarter, offensively and defensively, but if we survived that quarter, it would definitely die in the fourth quarter.
Turnovers were a massive problem, as stated above, with the Suns averaging 14.1 turnovers per game. No franchise can be a sustainable, winning, championship-contending team if they are committing that many turnovers.
Plus, having no true point guard couldn’t facilitate or help function the rest of the pieces on the court. It looked to appear that this team had no chemistry, intensity, or understanding of the game of basketball.
Devin Booker was not the answer; Bradley Beal was not the answer; nor was Kevin Durant, Isaiah Thomas (wasn’t even given a shot), Grayson Allen, nobody was the answer.
So, how does Tyus Jones become Phoenix’s savior?
He’s a true point guard who doesn’t need to always score and will, in fact, look to get the primary scorers open and able to get “easier” shots. There will be less frustration from players, more chemistry, pressure will be taken off of the “Big 3” to move around the ball, less iso-ball, and other things along those lines.
Fans, reading this article and knowing Jones already, know who Jones is and will always continue to be. His playing style is incredible and it will fit within Phoenix’s scheme of the coaches and the players.
With him running the offense, there won’t be 14 turnovers per game anymore. There won’t be constant traps and pressures put on Phoenix’s players when bringing up the ball. What makes this even more beautiful as a fan of the Phoenix Suns is knowing that everyone will be involved, there will be no more (to limited) iso-ball, and stars can return to their natural roles.
Conclusion
This isn’t rocket science, right? Phoenix always needed a point guard, a true play-making guard. James Jones has finally found him and has finally be able to sign him. Everything I’ve listed in this article from his main skills to the problems of the Phoenix Suns all go together because the problems can be solved with his talents.
Phoenix struggled in the third quarter because they didn’t have a point guard, same goes for their fourth quarter struggles. When a team can’t pass the ball, and has to play hero-ball to generate scoring opportunities, they are bound to collapse and stall out like an old car.
The health of this offense, and this team in general, needed a point guard. We found that out with Chris Paul, now we’ve found a younger and almost better version of him for the modern-day Suns.
There was no secret code to figuring out how to “fix” the Suns; they just needed a point guard, a reliable and beyond ready-to-play point guard.
I’ve always wanted him here in Phoenix, and, now, management has secured him.
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Why The Knicks Adding Mikal Bridges Makes Them Title Contenders
Published
2 months agoon
July 9, 2024By
JoshuaMikal Bridges was traded to the New York Knicks for the price of five first-rounders and Bojan Bogdanovic, which isn’t much in the eyes of New York.
They don’t need the picks, and while Bogdanovic was great to have, he was very much replaceable when a player like Bridges could land. I say all this to say that General Manager Gersson Rosas hit the jackpot, which sets them up for many years of potential championship runs.
In today’s article, I will be breaking down why Bridges is an excellent fit for New York, why the Knicks are now a legitimized threat in the East, and how their starting five can take on the reigning champs – the Boston Celtics.
What does the 27-year-old add to this franchise?
First of all, here is the official trade for anyone that is curious:
Knicks traded Bojan Bogdanovic, Shake Milton, Mamadi Diakite, five first-rounders, a first-round pick swap, and a future second-round pick to the Brooklyn Nets for Bridges, Keita Bates-Diop, and a future second-round pick in exchange.
I wanted to clarify this trade. Critics call this move the best move this offseason because it truly is a steal. We can talk about his lack of a resume from his time with the Phoenix Suns to now, but that isn’t his fault.
Who is Mikal Bridges? He is an underrated two-way player who elevates a team’s defense with the ability to score an efficient 20 points per game; plus, his skill as a shot creator and space creator is another reason why so many teams wanted Bridges on their team. Pay attention to teams like the Houston Rockets.
But how does this positively impact the Knicks?
Jalen Brunson is the primary scorer, has been, and always will be, so don’t think Bridges will come in here and disrupt that in any shape, form, or fashion. It will be the complete opposite. Bridges is a full-on team player. He will complement and benefit Brunson as a secondary creator who will take pressure off Brunson.
Beyond his offensive aspect, let’s talk about his defense. When Bridges was with Phoenix, nobody knew he had the capability to score in high volumes. Statistically, he averaged roughly 12 points during his time with the Suns. What people did talk about was his defensive presence, intensity, and how much of a nightmare he was covering pretty much anyone (within reason).
Also, let’s be fair to Bridges: his offensive game came in the final season with Phoenix due to injuries and other factors, as that’s when his potential scoring was revealed to the world. It then exploded when he arrived in Brooklyn. So, this tells his story, and his style is even better.
However, back to defense. Bridges is a pivotal piece due to him being a scrappy player who will always fight for loose balls, rebounds, try to get steals/blocks, and stuff that doesn’t get recorded.
Plus, his style of basketball is very intriguing, especially since he can play multiple positions. Bridges is essentially the “glue” on any team he is on. This is why front offices and head coaches value him and hold him in such high regard; his overall play in this game is beyond exceptional.
Everything I have listed offensively and defensively positively impacts New York because this is everything they wanted in a player and value. Now, there is one more factor that sealed the deal in this whole transaction.
The Nova Knicks have the greatest chemistry ever
Since their time at Villanova, Brunson, Bridges, Josh Hart, and Donte DiVincenzo have been teammates or friends. Now, they’ve all rejoined each other to create the “Nova Knicks,” which has become popular since the trade before day one of the 2024 NBA draft.
Teams worry about putting players together and seeing how they build chemistry, react, roles, and egos, and how that all translates to winning basketball games. It’s hit-or-miss; sometimes it works out, sometimes it doesn’t. The Knicks, however, don’t have to worry about that.
First, most of this team doesn’t have impeding egos that ruin franchises. I don’t think of anyone who does. Second, when you have high-level athletes and players connected for years, that is going to make the integration process very easy and winning games even easier.
With the preexisting chemistry between those four players and the ones already being constructed through the entire roster, this team will be locked in for game one of the next season.
This team being dangerous is no longer a what-if but a reality
The chatter of New York is a team that can’t get out of the second round, striking no fear into the hearts of their opponents, and being the same old failing Knicks is no longer here. It shouldn’t be, as this team has changed and has improved drastically through a couple of moves in the draft and overall offseason.
Sticking with Bridges, though, their starting five is beyond dangerous. They’ll be starting Brunson (PG), Bridges (SG), OG Anunoby (SF), Julius Randle (PF), and Mitchell Robinson (C). Many teams can’t compete with, as that is one heck of a starting lineup.
Who in the East can beat them outside of Boston? New York was the second seed last season; they won 50 games. Now, they’ve made improvements by adding Bridges, and they didn’t have to unload their roster like Phoenix did for a big-name player.
If these teams couldn’t drag them down last year, what makes anyone think it will be different this season? Yes, teams did make moves. However, they did lose pieces. While New York did lose Isaiah Hartenstein, they still have Mitchell Robinson. Robinson is a solid center who, when healthy, is a double-double machine that is an incredible rim protector.
My point is this: New York didn’t clear the house to land a solid piece. Not only did they stay as a 50-win team, but by getting Bridges, Leon Rose has increased their games of winning by at least five. New York could see themselves as a 55-60 win team next season, not even exaggerating.
The addition of Bridges only made them scarier; there was no need to take a step back. This was a strategic move to keep them contending without sacrificing a known name. Given who Mikal is and who the Knicks were last season, this should frighten teams and fanbases heading into next season.
Can the Knicks beat the Celtics?
I love talking about the Knicks and their chances of winning a championship, but their number one enemy in the East is the Boston Celtics. While I would want to ride the hype train longer, we need to be ultra-realistic.
Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown’s Celtics are the reigning champs; Boston has one of the most impressive groups the NBA has seen in a while. Like other teams, they aren’t going anywhere, as the Knicks are building up their team to dethrone the champs.
Personally, I am not going to take the Knicks over the Celtics. There are several reasons, but nobody can stop Boston. Not the Mavericks, Nuggets, 76ers, Suns, Bucks, Timberwolves, absolutely nobody can. Boston could make a dynasty out of this, or at least a two-three championship run.
So, for right now, I’m taking Boston over New York. Let’s wait to get ahead of ourselves until we see them go head-to-head next season. It’s not diminishing the Knicks, but nobody can beat the Celtics.
Conclusion: The Knicks are title contenders
While I said they can’t beat the Celtics, I never said they couldn’t win a ring or compete for one. Even though nobody can beat the Celtics, few teams can match up against New York.
The Knicks made the East grueling during the regular season, which won’t change. If they can stay healthy, which looks very good, they can be number two in their conference again. Opposing teams will have to get through New York, which’ll be a struggle.
Even teams in the West have to watch out for New York. New York is a growing threat, doing everything perfectly in the offseason and trying to replicate their success from last season. Fans will be witnessing prime New York years; it will start next season, as this team has all the makings to win a championship.
Randle and Anunoby are going to be healthy, and Brunson will continue to be healthy. Bridges is Iron Man; nothing stops that man. Robinson will be a productive center, boosting the Knicks in many ways. Hart will continue his high-minute, high-production nights. The entire team will be functioning in a high capacity.
There is no better time to be a Knicks fan than right now; I’m excited, as this year will be a fun ride.
2024 NBA Draft
2024 Mock NBA Draft (Lottery Picks)
Published
2 months agoon
June 26, 2024By
Joshua2024 Mock NBA Draft (Lottery Picks)
This is CourtSideHeat’s official mock draft featuring this year’s lottery teams; big names like Zaccharie Risacher, Alex Sarr, Stephon Castle, Devin Carter, and so many others will be drafted within the first fourteen spots.
In today’s article, I’ll predict where each player will go and why they are the right fit for their respective team. The draft begins at 8 PM Eastern.
First overall pick: Atlanta Hawks
When Atlanta won the first pick, many thought Alex Sarr would be selected by the franchise. The going belief was pairing him with either Trae Young or Dejounte Murray, depending on how that situation unfolds.
However, reports are now speculating that Risacher will be going first to Atlanta. Beyond the rumors and reports, CourtSideHeat believes Zaccharie Risacher will be the first selection in this year’s draft.
Even though he needs to improve his jump shot, or lack thereof, he is still a solid defenseman who can shoot the three-ball. He’s shown glimpses of being able to play professional ball at the next level, as his quick decision-making and ability to help their frontcourt are major bonuses within the organization.
The upside is very real, and he should go number one.
Second overall pick: Washington Wizards
Washington will select Alex Sarr, as Sarr is easily the team’s number-one pick. Either Sarr or Risacher could be the first player selected, but if Sarr falls to second, don’t be shocked if the Wizards select the skilled big man.
While he doesn’t have a consistent long-range shot, his inside game on both ends of the floor is deeply intriguing. It’s so intriguing that Washington will pass up on getting a high-quality point guard. His potential as a stretch big should not be ruled out; even beyond that, his defensive skills as a shot blocker are an unfair advantage for whoever drafts him.
If you want a player who can play defense and has a legit perimeter skill set, look no further than the 19-year-old Frenchman.
Third overall pick: Houston Rockets
Let’s assume Houston decides not to trade the pick, which is up in the air due to recent reports, they should draft a high-value combo guard that can sit behind Fred VanVleet and learn a lot from the former championship-winning veteran.
That is why Houston’s front office should select Reed Sheppard. The upside is ridiculous, as CourtSideHeat has him as the best point guard and combo guard in this year’s draft class. Besides him being able to play either backcourt position, he is a very skilled guard who has the potential be an elite offensive player in this league.
Sheppard is an outstanding dribbler, passer, space creator, and shot creator. What he can do for himself and for his teammates is beyond comprehension. Houston’s bench, and soon their starting lineup, would love him.
This is all predicated on the ideology of them keeping their pick.
Fourth overall pick: San Antonio Spurs
Will the Spurs be controversial? Who knows, as many do want them to take Matas Buzelis. However, CourtSideHeat is projecting San Antonio to land Stephon Castle. Don’t be taken aback when this happens; why? Because he is a cornerstone point guard who can compliment Victor Wembanyama.
He has very strong playmaking skills and the ability to play incredibly versatile defense, which should not go unnoticed. While the stats aren’t popping out, he’s seen as an underrated player who led UConn to a championship.
While shot making is questionable, how he’ll be able to get his teammates involved and be an offensive facilitator for this team will be more impactful than anything. Gregg Popovich will be happy to have him paired with Wemby.
Fifth overall pick: Detroit Pistons
This selection is tough, as people can make the case for either Buzelis or Donovan Clingan. Personally, I believe Donovan Clingan will be selected by the Detroit Pistons. To pass up on the additional rim protection and having the best center from this draft class would be criminally insane.
A frontcourt featuring him and Jalen Duren would be unstoppable, plus it would speed up their rebuilding phase. A big 3 centered around him, Duren, and Cade Cunningham (when healthy) would be a league-wide threat.
Despite his shot-making and mobility is questionable, he’s an interior beast on both ends of the court. In many people’s eyes, Clingan has been seen as a first-overall pick, but if he falls, he will go straight to Detroit.
Sixth overall pick: Charlotte Hornets
Matas Buzelis will be selected with the sixth pick in this year’s NBA draft, as the Hornets can do so many great things with him. Pairing him alongside Brandon Miller and LaMelo Ball would be great for their young, talented unit.
He’s regarded as a point-forward player who communicates with teammates to keep the offense humming, has a decent shot (three-ball a little iffy), has a great touch around the rim, and can play fantastic defense. His game is not really limited, as the areas he lacks in, he makes up with in the ones he excels and punishes teams with.
Buzelis is highly talented and deserves to be a top-ten prospect.
Seventh overall pick: Portland Trail Blazers
Cody Williams is projected to be selected by Portland unless Donovan Clingan is still somehow available. However, assuming he’s gone, Williams should be the newest addition to a rebuilding Blazers.
How reliable he is as a shooter is concerning; inconsistency and reluctance are the two best words to describe his shooting game. It is definitely something that needs to be addressed, but he is a dynamic finisher and a solid playmaker.
Jalen Williams’ brother has been regarded as a top-5 pick and as a surefire lottery pick. He can play tremendous defense, foul-bait, and penetrate the defense. CourtSideHeat has him as a top-10 pick with real potential to grow and to flourish under Chauncey Billups.
Eighth overall pick: San Antonio Spurs
San Antonio is one lucky team in recent draft memory, as they have two lottery picks. While this class isn’t regarded as the best, it is still monumental to have two lottery picks that allow a brighter future for an obviously rebuilding team.
That’s why they’ll be drafting Ron Holland, who is an eye-drawing wing player. Want to talk about an athletic, two-way player that is gritty-gutty? Then let’s talk about the player coming out of the G League Ignite.
The very young player is perfect for improvement and will serve to be a fantastic starting player; he can get paired with both Wemby and newly drafted Castle. Holland will create waves in the NBA.
Ninth overall pick: Memphis Grizzlies
Devin Carter should be selected by a young, rebuilding Memphis franchise – if going off of the premise they are going to take the best guard at that pick. Could it be Dalton Knecht? Yes, but older is not always better.
Plus, with Carter, he is a high volume scorer and rebounder. The level he plays with on both ends of the court is something the Grizzlies love as a characteristic in their players. Just like in college, expect to see him play defense and generate steals and blocks.
Tenth overall pick: Utah Jazz
Dalton Knecht will provide great shooting for Utah, as they are a team that needs a wing player and another shooter like Knecht. Despite him being 23-years-old, he’s an excellent movement and pull-up shooter.
Knecht can easily take his college experiences and translate them to the National Basketball Association; he plays a little gritty-gutty, will play solid defense, and drive to the hole or hit a quick three. Something the Jazz desperately need, as they aren’t rebuilding but also aren’t playoff contending.
Not only can he do it all as a shooter, but he can catch fire, and once he catches fire, it is over for everyone. Expect Knecht be gone before pick eleven.
Eleventh overall pick: Chicago Bulls
Chicago needs to replace Alex Caruso, despite adding Josh Giddey, and the perfect player would Rob Dillingham. He is a very skilled, agile point guard who plays it exceptionally well on both ends of the court.
The 19-year-old is the best option for the Bulls, as not only is his skillset an extreme positive, it provides more stability to their backcourt. Something they’ve been wanting since dealing with the Lonzo Ball fiasco.
Him and Coby White would be a top duo in this league, which could make or break their odds of going to the Play-In Tournament or first round. Also, Zach LaVine is most likely gone. So, management will be looking for a potential solution. Dillingham could be that solution.
Twelfth overall pick: Oklahoma City Thunder
Like what the Bulls did, the Thunder need to replace the hole Josh Giddey left. Despite the new plans for Giddey was to come off the bench, his production will be greatly missed. With that being said, Nikola Topic should be selected by Oklahoma City.
Now, I understand the hesitancy with selecting him this high into the draft. The 18-year-old is coming off a tore ACL, which is a horrific injury suffered way too early in someone’s career, however, Sam Presti can take the gamble.
To replace a bench player, he would be a great addition. Topic is a solid playmaker with a good shot, plus he’s a crafty shooter that can turn his game into something deadly. This point forward can play on both sides of the court pretty efficiently, which allows for better bench defense and can turn into starter-like minutes.
Thirteenth overall pick: Sacramento Kings
His stock has risen considerably since taking Purdue to the championship game and what scouts have been able to see of him, which is why Sacramento should be selecting Zach Edey in the lottery. Could this be a risk? Yes, but it is one willing to take.
Edey’s stock has been in the range of either mid-to-late first round, but it has skyrocketed the closer the draft comes. The 22-year-old is coming off an impressive 25 points and 12 rebounds per game season; something that has many teams interested.
The center position is lacking for the Kings, so it would make incredible sense for them to get an impactful player like Edey. He’s an interior player that is hard to stop on both ends of the floor, which is great for easy buckets or contesting/blocking shots.
He can play good defense, get teammates open through setting screens and causing traffic jams, and a good low-scoring package. CourtSideHeat believes Edey will go in the lottery without question.
Fourteenth overall pick: Portland Trail Blazers
Just like the Spurs, the Trail Blazers have two picks in this year’s lottery. That is why CourtSideHeat is projecting them to go all-in on remodeling their frontcourt through the draft; Portland already selected Cody Williams, now they’ll be picking Tristan da Silva.
The biggest concerns facing him would be his lack of athleticism and ability to be effective on both ends; that by far has caused the most panic amongst teams selecting him in the lottery; however, I’m pretty confident he’ll be selected in the later stages of the lottery.
For Portland, it would make sense to draft him. Da Silva has great shooting versatility, especially as a player who specializes in playing either forward position. He’s able to knock down any shot on the court, with his three-ball being a highlight of his game.
I don’t see his lack of athletic abilities being a deterrent for him being selected high in the draft; his basketball IQ is very good, he is able to shoot the ball from anywhere, can pass well, defensively solid, and controls the rim.
Portland should run the “risk” on choosing da Silva.
Conclusion:
This is the end of CourtSideHeat’s official mock draft. The draft is a two-day event starting on Wednesday and concluding on Thursday. First round is Wednesday, second round is Thursday.
All these picks are very good picks for teams that are ready to push themselves into a deeper postseason run, like the Thunder, and for teams who are continually building weapons around a franchise player, like the Spurs.
Notable names that could go in the lottery, if things were to be shaken up, would be Kel’el Ware, Tidjane Salaun, Ja’Kobe Walter, and even Tyler Kolek. However, I’m pretty certain and confident in the fourteen players who were selected in my mock draft.
However, time will tell, as we are quickly approaching this year’s NBA draft.