Read some of our writers thoughts on the good, the bad, and other things that stood out to them in the Phoenix Suns 2018 NBA Draft.
The Suns made some huge strides toward the future in the draft, and our writers have some interesting thoughts on everything the Suns did. Good night? Bad night? Could’ve done better? Hear our thoughts on the impact of the draft going forward.
Dan Volpone
What a night for the Phoenix Suns! They officially selected Deandre Ayton, the next franchise’s new centerpiece. They traded up from 16 fo 10 to grab Mikal Bridges. They grabbed Elie Okobo to open up the second round and George King with the penultimate pick.
Overall, it was certainly a good haul for the Suns. They acquired their center of the future and brought in another great wing. Then in the second round they brought in two young guards to add depth at a position of need.
This goes a long way toward completing the final core of the roster. While the Suns should still be in the market for another legitimate starter at guard, a lineup with Devin Booker, Josh Jackson, and Bridges outside with Ayton manning the paint is a legit lineup. More importantly, each one has the potential to develop into a two way player, helping the team on both ends of the floor.
One concern from draft night is the amount traded to move up for Bridges. He’s a good value at ten, but the 2021 unprotected first rounder from Miami was a huge price to pay. That pick should be in the lottery, and 2021 may be the first year high school players are allowed in the draft. That means there could be two years worth of top prospects all in one draft, making the pick a tremendous asset.
Is Bridges really that much better than guys like Zhaire Smith and Donte DiVincenzo who were there at 16? Only time will tell.
But Suns fans should come away from the draft happy with the draft and excited about where the team is headed.