Phoenix Suns: 3 Players With Everything to Prove in Playoffs

Phoenix Suns with something to prove – Frank Kaminsky

Very few figures managed to bring more excitement and intrigue to the college basketball landscape than Frank Kaminsky during his time as a Wisconsin Badger. But although the Wooden Award winner heard his name called relatively early on draft night as a ninth overall pick to the Charlotte Hornets, his collegiate success has failed to translate over to the professional level.

For his career, Kaminsky averages 9.4 points and 4.0 rebounds per game, having played four seasons with the Hornets before spending his last two here in The Valley. With the Suns, Kaminsky serves as a steady role player, logging just over 15 minutes a game while working beside Dario Saric to back up Deandre Ayton.

But Kaminsky’s contract expires after this year, and with nine other teammates averaging more minutes per game than him right now, his odds to resign with the team do not look very promising. If he somehow turns things around during the postseason though, that could change within an instant.

With Kaminsky, you always know what you’re getting. As the more consistent back up big this year, the Suns might put him out on the floor more frequently during the playoffs, possibly looking for some stability during close games nearing their completion. Monty Williams seemingly trusts Kaminsky, having turned his way more often than not amidst Ayton’s recent injury issues. With this combined again with the motivation to play himself into a new contract, this is Kaminsky’s best shot to find his way back to notoriety.