Evaluating Each Suns Backcourt Player After 21 Games

Ish Smith

Nov 19, 2013; Sacramento, CA, USA; Phoenix Suns point guard Ish Smith (3) as the Sacramento Kings shoot free throws during the fourth quarter at Sleep Train Arena. The Sacramento Kings defeated the Phoenix Suns 107-104. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports

Stats: 12.0 MPG, 2.6 PPG, 1.2 RPG, 2.0 APG, 0.313 FG%, 0.111 3P%

Ish Smith came over to Phoenix from the Bucks in the trade that sent Caron Butler to Wisconsin. His role as the reserve point guard was solidified when the Suns traded Kendall Marshal to the Wizards. He played significant minutes with one of the two starters injured, but has been relegated to a bench role since the pair return to action. Maybe there’s a reason why. He’s been an awful shooter this season, going 4-30 from shots further than eight feet away.  That is pretty bad. His greatest asset to the Suns has been his defense. He’s been brought in to slow down small point guards like Isaiah Thomas, that the rest of the team can’t keep up with.

Smith hasn’t been awful, but his poor shooting will likely keep him on the bench barring injury.

Grade: C