The Phoenix Suns have a battle for backup point guard.
The start of Ty Jerome was questionable but shows that head coach Monty Williams wants to get the rookie some confidence. With a couple of miscues on offense, Jerome began to find the open man, starting with a nice assist to Ayton. Becoming a playmaker is more key for Jerome than just chucking up shots. He continues to underestimate himself when handling the ball.
Ball movement continued to impress as the second team of Cam Johnson, Jevon Carter, Frank Kaminski, and newly acquired Cameron Payne checked into the game. Payne within a couple of minutes of play showed that he can be a backup point guard, quickly replacing Elie Okobo, as a processor of the offense and left-handed jump shooter. The energy is there in Payne and he is already showing the capability of carrying the second team with scoring and hustle.
The Suns carried a 50-39 lead into the tunnel at the half, leaving Suns fans satisfied. The offense was there and the defense showed up giving the Jazz no other option but to throw up difficult shots.