Phoenix Suns: Ranking Each Player on Defense for the 2021-22 Season

Phoenix Suns Players Ranked on Defense: Third Tier

#6 Devin Booker

As a more one dimensional player, some notable space stands between Devin Booker and Ayton/Johnson. But last year, Booker still showed that when he focuses on defense, he wields the potential to give his matchups serious trouble.

Fueled by his drive to win, Booker never turns away from a defensive challenge, which is more than can be said for other offensive-minded players like Trae Young. As he looks to chase MVP consideration next year, keep an eye out for Booker to potentially round out this rocky area of his game.

#7 JaVale McGee

Still with an incredible nine-foot-six standing reach and superb leaping abilities, JaVale McGee remains a notable defensive presence at the rim. He averaged 1.2 blocks per game last year between his time with the Cleveland Cavaliers and Denver Nuggets.

Also averaging 5.2 rebounds per game, McGee crashed the class better than every Sun last year except Ayton. He likely carves out a nice role for himself as a backup big, and comes through with a couple highlight reel swats throughout the season as well.

#8 Abdel Nader

Even though Abdel Nader hardly played last year, his small sample size still warrants encouragement for the 2021-22 season. He registered the fourth most blocks per game on the team, and held his opponents to the fourth lowest field goal percentage on the team. If you want to bet on a “dark horse” player to emerge as a strong contributor with the Suns this year, throw the house on Nader.