Should T.J. Warren Start Over P.J. Tucker In 2015-16?
The Verdict: Start Warren (For Now)
If the Suns are unable to significantly alter their situation heading into the 2015-16 season, starting Warren seems like the logical play. The odds of it actually happening? Probably not great. This franchise loves Tucker for his gritty playing style and on such a young team, he’s constantly singled out as a leader on the floor and in the locker room.
But if this team’s core is still the same after this summer, starting Warren at small forward would be the best option. Unless we see some radical changes in the Western Conference this offseason, the Suns max out as a first round playoff exit. No offense to Tucker, but the end of his prime does not coincide with the prime of this current group.
By looking at it from that perspective, Warren’s development becomes a much higher priority than preserving Tucker’s dignity. He’d be making an awful lot of money for a backup small forward, but the Suns have flexibility. Even if the front office abhorred paying that much for a reserve, they could always trade him to alleviate the situation.
There is absolutely no scenario where TJ Warren shouldn't be the starting small forward for the Phoenix Suns on 2015's opening night
— Tony Jones (@Tjonesonthenba) April 3, 2015
A Tucker trade isn’t necessary, and to be honest, it’s probably too soon to make a definitive statement on this discussion right now anyway. After all, this team could look very different come October, especially since no one is off-limits. We’ll probably have to revisit this topic in a few months.
Furthermore, that kind of roster change wouldn’t be immediate. Warren would have to earn it with a strong performances during NBA Summer League, training camp and the first few months of the season. Remember, we saw this last season with Len having to earn his starting job over Miles Plumlee, a process that took a few months.
But if the Suns aren’t going anywhere next season, they should call 2015-16 what it is — a developmental year — and focus on getting as many minutes as possible to the players who are crucial to this franchise taking the next step. On that ladder, T.J. Warren is definitely higher up than P.J. Tucker.
Next: Phoenix Suns: 2014-15 Player Grades