5 players the Phoenix Suns should maybe have taken over Josh Jackson
![Phoenix Suns Josh Jackson (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) Phoenix Suns Josh Jackson (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/ac2a0a10f743ec80b956470ff6991b7ff58d14365ef9a4074a40d199c0aa9872.jpg)
3. Lauri Markkanen (7-0 240, 21-years-old – 7th pick)
2017-18 Stats : 43-36-84 shooting line, 2.1 treys – 15.2 points, 7.5 rebounds and 0.6 blocks
Like Deandre Ayton, Lauri Markkanen is another University of Arizona product. Imagine the Suns’ front court being a pair of UofA guys. An imposing, talented duo that would be so fun to watch.
Lauri’s combination of size and skill make him a very intriguing young player that’s already becoming one of the better stretch fours in this league. He’s a fluid, coordinated big man with smooth mechanics and a soft touch.
When guarded on the perimeter, he uses his quick first step to drive by his defender and finish strong in the paint. He’s scored 20+ points in 15 games, nailed at least 4 treys in 8 games, pulled down 10+ rebounds in 14 games and swatted at least 2 shots in 5 games.
Anyone wanting to see a glimpse into his future should look at his game last season vs the New York Knicks. Facing Kristaps Porzingis, he went berserk. He swished 8 triples and put up 33 points, 10 boards and 1 block. Dirk Nowitzki is the only other 7 foot player in history to make 8 threes in a single game.
Markkanen is who Dragan Bender was supposed to be – but isn’t. Not even close.