Ranking the Phoenix Suns’ eight top-5 picks all-time

Alex Len – Drafted 5th Overall in 2013

While Len did not come into the league as the second-coming of any one particular player, his athleticism and mid-range game – coupled with his solid frame – did lend to the hope that he would be a solid starting center for the Phoenix Suns for a very long time.

Unfortunately, he just can’t seem to crack the starting lineup with any regularity.

While his per-36 numbers are well into double-double territory, and he had improved statistically his first three seasons, his 2016-17 season was a step back. His occasional clumsiness and regular foul trouble too prevents him from staying on the court long enough to make a significant impact on every game.

If the Suns decide to offer him a contract extension or match an offer that he receives in restricted free agency, he could still be a centerpiece at center for the foreseeable future. It just seems so far that he will never be a 17p/12r/2b per game player that would be most effective for a team hoping to place an anchor at center and build around him.