Phoenix Suns midseason grades

DENVER, CO - JANUARY 3: The Phoenix Suns huddles before the game against the Denver Nuggets on January 3, 2018 at the Pepsi Center in Denver, Colorado. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Garrett Ellwood/NBAE via Getty Images)
DENVER, CO - JANUARY 3: The Phoenix Suns huddles before the game against the Denver Nuggets on January 3, 2018 at the Pepsi Center in Denver, Colorado. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Garrett Ellwood/NBAE via Getty Images)
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Alex Len

SACRAMENTO, CA – DECEMBER 29: Alex Len #21 of the Phoenix Suns looks on during the game against the Sacramento Kings on December 29, 2017 at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images)
SACRAMENTO, CA – DECEMBER 29: Alex Len #21 of the Phoenix Suns looks on during the game against the Sacramento Kings on December 29, 2017 at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images)

How is Alex Len not the regular starter yet?

Playing behind Tyson Chandler and Greg Monroe (although the only player of the three that actually does play every game), Len is arguably the best backup center in the league. Playing in his contract year, Len has taken some serious strides in his development and is looking more and more like the player that the organization and it’s fans hoped he would be when he was selected fifth overall in 2013.

His mid-range shot seems to have left him somewhat this season, but his inside scoring and his fearlessness in the post is vastly improved. This kid is definitely earning a long-term contract after this season, and I for one hope that it’s with the Phoenix Suns.

Midseason Grade: B+