Statistical expectations for the 2017-18 Suns starters
By Adam Maynes
Shooting Guard – Devin Booker
Projection – 24.6 points / 3.5 rebounds / 4.5 assists / 1.2 steals
With an even more central role in the offense Booker is bound to raise several major statistical categories this season. What will push his scoring total up to 24.6 from 22.1 is that he will take even more three point attempts this season than last where he averaged 5.2 per game. Add in a greater field goal percentage due to continued growth in one-on-one play and Booker will hold this highest single season scoring average for the Suns since Amar’e Stoudemire averaged 25.2 in 2007-08.
Booker will also become a more accomplished facilitator and with the greater emphasis on him running more of the offense, his assists average will rise by a little over one per game from last season creating a very impressive offensive statline, one that hasn’t been seen since Charlie Scott averaged 24.3 points and 4.5 assists in 1974-75.
If Booker too focuses on becoming a better defender and finds himself in the right place at the right time on more often than not, 1.2 steals will be a very impressive number when looking back on his season (for continued comparison, Charlie Scot average 1.6 in 74-75 as well).