With the 2020-2021 All-Star game marking the halfway point in the NBA season, it’s a good indicator to reflect on the Phoenix Suns and their players so far.
The Suns begin the second half of their season at 24-11 earning the second seed in a talented Western Conference and second-best record in the NBA. While the Suns were expected to be a playoff contender, many didn’t expect the extraordinary jump from last season’s disappointing missed playoff opportunity to potential title contenders.
The credit goes from general manager James Jones, to head coach Monty Williams, and to the competing players night in and night out.
Phoenix has seen downs this season but many more ups. The ultimate goal for the Suns is to make the playoffs and end a 10-year drought. Phoenix looks to be in a prime position to finish in the top half of seeding but there is still a whole half-season of basketball to be played.
For now, here are grades for the regular starting five for Phoenix.
Phoenix Suns point guard Chris Paul midseason grade: A
One of the newest additions to Phoenix, Chris Paul joined after a productive season with the Oklahoma City Thunder. During that season Paul took the young and rebuilding Thunder to the playoffs and earned All-Star honors in the process.
Paul was the perfect addition to the young and high ceiling Suns team. His veteran experience and leadership is the best way to mold the ascending players into a competitive playoff team.
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While Paul’s stats are largely the same from last season, he has increased his assists per game, 3-point percentage, and free throw percentage. This consistency and spectacular team performance launched Paul into his 11th All-Star Game.
This season Paul is averaging 16 points with eight assists on 48.6% field goal shooting. His points per game are not exceptional but his role on the team isn’t to score. His role on the team is to take the scoring load off of the number one option, Devin Booker.
Paul has played a part in the development of fellow teammates such as Mikal Bridges and Cameron Johnson, and Deandre Ayton. These spikes have allowed Paul to reach double-digit assists in 13 games this season.
The intangibles Paul brings to the team are an underrated aspect that is helping take the team to the next level and reach their playoff aspirations. The high-level basketball IQ guard earns an A in his first season in Phoenix.