Phoenix Suns: 3 bold predictions for 2018-19

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NEW YORK, NY – NOVEMBER 03: (NEW YORK DAILIES OUT) Devin Booker #1 of the Phoenix Suns in action against Tim Hardaway Jr. #3 of the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on November 3, 2017 in New York City. The Knicks defeated the Suns 120-107. 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 Jim McIsaac/Getty Images) /

Devin Booker will be an All-Star

Coming off a max extension, expectations are higher than ever for Booker. He’s always put up raw numbers good enough to be an All-Star, but people have questioned whether those are just empty stats on a bad team. This year should be the year we find out.

Even if the Phoenix Suns don’t have a drastic improvement in the win column, the roster is undeniably improved. Now that Booker’s no longer the only scoring threat on the team, his numbers should have more context.

Last season’s 24.5 points per game was nice, but that came on 19.5 shots. And for the most part, teams could also relax on defense knowing the Suns weren’t going to win the game anyway. But this year, with more weapons around Booker, the Suns should put up better fights and get blown out way less.

With more sets going to other players, Booker will likely have less attempts from the field. But with the defense unable to fully key on him, his efficiency should increase. Between higher efficiency and what is hopefully a corner-turning improvement from this offseason, Booker will be able to keep up his raw scoring numbers.

Mikal Bridges and Trevor Ariza both spread the floor with their jumpers. Deandre Ayton can roll and pop after setting screens. Brandon Knight is a strong ball handler. Booker finally has legitimate offensive weapons, and it should lead to better looks and passing numbers.

With all that said, the biggest threat to keep Booker out of the All-Star game is the Suns record. They don’t need to be a playoff team, but they need to be much better than last year. If they can start the year off hot, they’ll get to where they need to be.

Booker will play great, the Suns will be just good enough, and Booker will get in as a replacement for an injured player.

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