Obviously, we expect the NBA’s biggest names to shine brightest during the NBA playoffs. Elevating one’s game during crucial moments remains the most straightforward way to differentiate this league’s stars from its superstars. It’s why Jimmy Butler saw his NBA stock skyrocket within the bubble last year, and also why Paul George goes repeatedly laughed at and disrespected.
But to capture a Larry O’Brien trophy, role players and typically forgotten pieces must step up and do the same. This truth meets no exception with the Phoenix Suns now up for title contention, who need reinforcers behind Chris Paul, Devin Booker, and Deandre Ayton to make some noise.
With just over a week left until the NBA’s play-in tournament kicks off the postseason, the Suns currently lead the NBA with a +2.9 bench net rating, showing promise that they already possess enough talent with their complimentary pieces to make an impact. Additionally, the Suns rank as a top 10 bench squad with a 79.2 free throw percentage, illustrating their potential to seal off victories during those always crucial late game moments that frequently come about during playoff contests.
Amongst Phoenix’s clearly talented bench though, three specific “secret weapons” remain at the their dispose, ready to give opponents some trouble despite their less recognized stature as NBA players. With that said, Suns fans should be excited for the team to set these players loose.