2. Eric Bledsoe
Dec 20, 2013; Denver, CO, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Eric Bledsoe (2) dribbles the ball during the first half against the Denver Nuggets at Pepsi Center. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports
Stats: 33.5 MPG, 18.0 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 5.8 APG, .486 FG%, .350 3p%
Eric Bledsoe was brought in as the first star in the Suns rebuild. He was living up to that billing until he went down with a meniscus injury. He chose to have part of it removed to increase his chances of a return this season. It is likely he will return at some point before the season is up. That is good news for the Suns, who sit at just under .500 without him.
Bledsoe’s offensive aggressiveness and defensive tenacity were well known while he sat in the shadow of Chris Paul. When he got the chance to start in Phoenix, he was unleashed on the NBA. He and Goran Dragic formed good chemistry in a 2-PG system.
Suns fans have a lot of reason to be excited for the future of the team. This guy is one of the primary ones. His injury looks like it is only a small bump, and the former Kentucky prospect has a big payday coming his way this summer.
Grade: A