J.P. Tokoto: Phoenix Suns 2015 Draft Profile
![Jan 5, 2015; Chapel Hill, NC, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels forward J.P. Tokoto (13) defends as Notre Dame Fighting Irish guard Demetrius Jackson (11) dribbles in the second half. The Fighting Irish defeated the Tar Heels 71-70 at Dean E. Smith Center. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports Jan 5, 2015; Chapel Hill, NC, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels forward J.P. Tokoto (13) defends as Notre Dame Fighting Irish guard Demetrius Jackson (11) dribbles in the second half. The Fighting Irish defeated the Tar Heels 71-70 at Dean E. Smith Center. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/f85805dc014533f33e092456862e075304de12db9d68348577e9e0d8bf421e9c.jpg)
Potential Fit
Though the Suns are not left wanting for small forwards, Tokoto could be a cheaper alternative to P.J. Tucker or even Marcus Morris at the small forward position if Phoenix finds a great trade to try and bring in a star. His offense needs work, but Tokoto might be a decent fit because of his knack for operating in transition.
According to DraftExpress, nearly 25 percent of his offensive possessions came in transition last season, which would make him a good match with a team like Phoenix that will be trying to push the tempo again this season.
That being said, the Suns will probably be drafting by need in the second round unless there’s still an obvious steal on the board. Perimeter shooting and/or more depth for the frontcourt will still be at the forefront of the Suns’ needs, so unless Tokoto really impressed during his Phoenix workout, it seems unlikely he’d be a legitimate option.
Tokoto’s superb rebounding (5.6 boards per game last season) and passing instincts would be helpful for this Suns team, but they’re not enough to outweigh some of the frontcourt options that should still be available at No. 44.
Next: Conclusion