
Small Forward – Josh Jackson
Josh Jackson needs to be in the starting lineup, but more importantly, like Ryan Anderson, T.J. Warren needs to come off the bench.
The Phoenix Suns need to have depth off the bench and they need to have players who will keep up with the league’s better benches as well.
Starting Josh Jackson is a no-brainer. If he has taken a step forward and it this 3-point shooting has truly improved, then his athleticism and two-way ability is perfect for the starting lineup.
If he hasn’t, having Trevor Ariza and his tremendous outside shooting allows Jackson to start as he will still continue to have no problem scoring through slashing and his athletic superiority, while his defense helps to lockdown an opponent that further helps make up for his lack out a 3-point shot.
This then allows scoring savant T.J. Warren to come off the bench, providing the team a kick on offense, helping to maintain a lead, or dig the team out of a hole while the starters are resting.
Jackson’s two-way ability as a defender also helps Devin Booker out as Book can guard the fourth best player on the court with Ayton taking the center, and Ariza and Jackson taking the opposition’s top-two wings.
Having those three on the court with Booker will allow Book to focus most on his offense, something he must continue to make his greatest strength, while he develops his defensive skill-set.