2017 NBA Draft Selections
The Phoenix Suns had a productive 2017 NBA Draft, claiming three players who all have the ability to address the team’s needs on the court. The first selection was forward Josh Jackson with the fourth overall pick. Some analysts feel that Jackson was the best available player in the draft, including former Suns players Dan Majerle and Jalen Rose. Jackson’s skill-set checks many of the boxes concerning the team’s needs. His ability to be a primary defender and secondary play-maker fit seamlessly next to his future running mate, Devin Booker.
With their next selection, the Suns took guard Davon Reed with the 32nd overall pick. In Reed, the Suns have a 3-and-D prospect who has the ability to be a leader off the bench, a la Jared Dudley. During his senior year at Miami, Reed averaged 39.7 percent from 3 on six attempts per game. Once healthy, General Manager Ryan McDonough and company hope that they have found a steady rotation player in Reed, perhaps even the next Malcolm Brodgon.
The Suns’ last selection was at pick 54 where they selected forward Alec Peters out of Valparaiso. Alec possesses the ability to score inside and out, making him an interesting prospect for the team. Peters will likely be a main fixture with the Northern Arizona Suns for portions of the season, much like how Derrick Jones Jr. was during the first half of last season.
Overall, the Phoenix Suns had a productive draft, adding potentially a starter, a rotation cog, and a skilled developmental player. The 2017 NBA Draft proved to be a good first step for the Suns offseason efforts.