Potential Fit
The Suns need a backup point guard, but that’s not their most pressing need. McDonough has repeatedly said that the Suns won’t be drafting according to need, but in a draft that has so many options in terms of stretch-fours, taking another point guard would definitely send an ill-received message.
Payne is an excellent prospect who could be selected anywhere from No. 7 to No. 15. He’ll more than likely be a lottery selection, but should the Suns have him on their board?
As much as people don’t want to hear it, the Suns could do worse than Payne in the draft. While I’d still prefer McDonough adding some rebounding and floor spacing with a stretch-four, this undersized point guard would provide Phoenix with the kind of unselfish play that is needed on a team with so many score-first players.
More than likely, it won’t even be up to Phoenix. The Denver Nuggets, Miami Heat and Indiana Pacers are all teams that could conceivably choose Payne to strengthen the backcourt before the Suns pick. The question is, what should the Suns do if Payne is still on the board?
Next: Conclusion