Dragan Bender’s Phoenix Suns career could be far from over

Following a 2018-19 season where he had more ups and downs than a roller coaster, his Phoenix Suns career could be far from over.

It’s fair to say that Dragan Bender showed positive strides under recently fired head coach Igor Kokoskov, someone known for emphasizing player development.

In his third season, Bender played in 46 games, starting in 27.  He averaged 18 minutes per game, more than 7 minutes less each match than last season, in which he started 37 of 82 games. With the decrease in time on the court, Bender averaged less points, rebounds and assists than last year.

Dragan only averaged 5 points per game this season, but on nearly 45% shooting.  His field goal percentage is one improvement over the season prior, seeing an impressive 6 percent increase.

His stats by no means are convincing of an NBA starter, but he appeared to play with more confidence at times, more sturdy on the wing where he has found a little niche.

Unfortunately, Bender still looked shy on offense this past campaign.  A lot of ball watching and shadowing, and showing lack of aggression on both ends of the court.

Could the coaching change set to take place in Phoenix promote a more effective Dragan? Fans would love to see him start breathing that fire.

Bender has shown no major improvements in his game since being drafted.  With a body and playing style that resembles Kristaps Porzingis, the Suns are hopeful that they can get the most out of Bender moving forward.  Signs of stability were present here and there during his stretch of starts in 2019.

While fans are quick to hate on Bender, it can be argued that he has not been set up for success, that he has not exactly gotten the necessary help that would allow him to blossom as desired.

He is yet to see a consistent coaching staff. Sorry, did you trust Earl Watson with the 19-year-old European style big? Bender looked more confident at times this past season and while Igor is an excellent developer, maybe the stern leader the Suns are looking for will bring even more confidence out of the Croatian than Kokoskov was able to.

Bender is 21 now. TWENTY-ONE.  At this point, should the Suns fail to re-sign him, he may end up in the likes of San Antonio ending up the next stretch big European NBA sensation.

Not exactly the most efficient, Bender’s game still mimics one that would be just about ideal for a seven-foot athletic big in today’s NBA.  Why should the Suns lose hope now?

Dragan, since being drafted by the Suns, has played alongside big men including Alex Len, Tyson Chandler (not exactly in his prime), Alan Williams, Greg Monroe (barely) and finally Deandre Ayton.

Bender seemingly looked better when playing with Ayton. Coincidence? Drafted and thrown into a major role under the rim that he is not meant for, the Suns should prioritize getting Bender a mentor.  Ayton, a true center, keeps Bender from playing a position where he is uncomfortable playing. Don’t get me started on the point guards he’s had either.

Maybe the Suns aren’t looking to make Bender their next star power forward, but there is no reason with the right coach and the right players around him that he can’t be a threat off the bench. Heck, sit him for a year and just allow him to continue to develop and maybe strengthen his body some.

Yet to live up to any high expectations, there has been overreaction within Suns nation calling for his head.  At this point, keeping a 21-year-old who has promising attributes, as a bottom-feeder learning from what hopefully becomes a revamped roster on your bench does not seem like the worst idea.

Fans and coaches (not that coaches matter now), were able to see sneak peeks of Bender’s true ability.  The 2018-19 season was by no means one to glorify for Bender, but perhaps was one of recognition and growth.  Bender is worth keeping around, at least for a few more seasons.