Midseason report card with second half expectations

SALT LAKE CITY, UT - FEBRUARY 14: Teammates Elfrid Payton
SALT LAKE CITY, UT - FEBRUARY 14: Teammates Elfrid Payton
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Devin Booker

SALT LAKE CITY, UT – FEBRUARY 14: Devin Booker #1 of the Phoenix Suns brings the ball up court during a game against the Utah Jazz at Vivint Smart Home Arena on February 14, 2018 in Salt Lake City, Utah. 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. (Photo by Gene Sweeney Jr./Getty Images)
SALT LAKE CITY, UT – FEBRUARY 14: Devin Booker #1 of the Phoenix Suns brings the ball up court during a game against the Utah Jazz at Vivint Smart Home Arena on February 14, 2018 in Salt Lake City, Utah. 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. (Photo by Gene Sweeney Jr./Getty Images)

Devin Booker is, the Next Black Mamba.  When healthy, he almost looks unstoppable offensively with an array of mid-range jumpers and fadaways boosted by his size, coupled with his ball-handling skills which allows him to safetly drive on opponents, and a range that creeps farther and farther out to Steph Curry-land as Booker’s career wears on.

Phoenix Suns
Phoenix Suns

Phoenix Suns

Booker, traditionally a shooting guard or small forward, was finally given time at point guard this season, a position that I have long argued he should man. While that experiment was successful, it didn’t last long due to injuries, and now with the acquisition of Elfrid Payton will certainly place Point Book on the back burner as the franchise scouts Payton as their potential starting point for the future.

That being said, Booker has been, well Booker. He’s continued to improve all facets of his game, outside of a few lazy moments on the court due to obvious moments of frustration from losing, he has been outstanding. Most of his important stats are up this season and he still does not appear to be anywhere near the peak of his talents.

Add in the practice at point guard, and he has certainly met, if not exceeed, all expectations this season.

I expect more of the same in the second half.

Grade: A