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Phoenix Suns: Season Preview for Richaun Holmes

By Roger Acker

PHILADELPHIA,PA - JANUARY 26: Richaun Holmes #22 of the Philadelphia 76ers waits for the rebound against the Phoenix Suns at Wells Fargo Center on January 26, 2015 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 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 2016 NBAE (Photo by Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA,PA - JANUARY 26: Richaun Holmes #22 of the Philadelphia 76ers waits for the rebound against the Phoenix Suns at Wells Fargo Center on January 26, 2015 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 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 2016 NBAE (Photo by Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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Richaun Holmes is an extremely athletic big man who can fill up a highlight reel. But in what ways will he be used in his first season with the Phoenix Suns?

In a small move this offseason where the Phoenix Suns sent cash considerations to Philadelphia to acquire Richaun Holmes, General Manager Ryan McDonough was able to add depth to the frontcourt and a young player to their current core. He played three seasons in Philly, and while never establishing a consistent role, showed enough for Phoenix to give him a chance.

The primary appeal behind Holmes is his athleticism. In Philly, when he entered the game his hustle and constant energy gave life to the game, making him a fan favorite.

With the Phoenix Suns, his role should be the same. As a third string center, or taking over backup if Tyson Chandler is injured or traded, his primary offensive role will likely place him as a heavy pick and role player. He is great at catching lobs rolling to the basket, and his athleticism forces the defense to pick him up freeing the perimeter for shooters.

Even though he is exciting and instantly brings energy as soon as he enters a game, Holmes likely will not have a significant role on the team.

Defensively, he can contest any shot at the rim and is quick enough to pick up perimeter players, but lacks the defensive IQ and instincts to become a defensive force. NBA.com/stats shows his defensive rating in three seasons was never less than 105.1, and even though they look impressive, he has yet to average over a block a game in a season.

He has shown a willingness to shoot the 3-ball in the past, but it is a major work in progress.

In the 2015-16, 2016-17, and 2017-18, his 3-point percentage was 18.2, 35.1, and 12.9, respectively. The inconsistency is concerning and makes it hard to determine whether the 2016-17 season was a fluke or not. Although without a defined, consistent role on the team, one can’t blame him for not being able to be overly effective on offense.

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There’s a high likelihood that his opportunities with the Phoenix Suns may depend on his shooting touch. If they stay low, expect him to be utilized in a small role without the certainty of consistent playing time game in and game out.

However, if he can get his defenders to at least respect his shot, it could open up minutes for him at the five, or maybe even four, where new Head Coach Igor Kokoskov would look to him for screening, rolling, and the occasional outside shot.

Adding Holmes to the roster provides the team with a cheap, low-risk backup option who has the hustle and highlight plays to make the Phoenix crowd love him.

It is yet to be seen if management views him as a future piece on this team, but regardless, watching him and Deandre Ayton catch lobs all season will be fun.

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