Phoenix Suns: 2 Possible Changes We Might See After First Few Games

Phoenix Suns Quick Changes: Benching Jae Crowder for Cameron Johnson

Through the gates this season, nobody struggled more than swingman Jae Crowder. Going 2-15 from deep and on pace to average his most turnovers per game for a season, Crowder just looks lost right now, and might benefit from a less-intense role off the bench until he reestablishes his game.

Contrarily, Cameron Johnson looked clean starting his third year at the NBA level. Going 6-13 from 3-point territory to start the season, he embodies a clear upgrade as a floor spacer and scorer compared to Crowder.

Although the Suns might hurt a bit without Crowder’s leadership at the floor’s end, Johnson stacks up as no scrub either as an impact defender. With a long wing span, serious bounce, and sneaky quickness, he carries all the traits necessary to defend the block at a high level.

With some time, he might bring what Crowder does as a defender as well as his sharper offensive skills together at once, offering the Suns a full upgrade at the four spot.

This might go against Phoenix’s long term plans, as they likely want to keep Johnson somewhat under wraps with his rookie extension eligibility coming into play next summer. But regardless, if him starting elevates the team enough to put them on a championship trajectory, they need to do the right thing.