Phoenix Suns: 2 Duds and 1 Stud From First Two Weeks of the Season

Phoenix Suns Early Dud: Jae Crowder

Shooting just 31.7 percent from the floor and 22.2 percent from deep, Jae Crowder looks like he caught Russell Westbrook-itis when playing against the Lakers earlier this season. Those inefficient shooting marks have him averaging just 7.6 points per game right now, on pace to become his lowest since his sophomore season with the Dallas Mavericks.

With Crowder operating as a floor spacing shooter to work adjacent with Phoenix’s pick-and-roll oriented offense, the Suns only need him to knock down shots at the offensive end, which makes his inability to do so right now so troubling.

Crowder managed to sink two triples during Phoenix’s game against Cleveland three nights ago, but he still shot a collective 2-7 from the field. He just needs to find rhythm, or else the Suns might turn toward Cameron Johnson as a starter, with him currently shooting 34.8 percent from deep this season.

On the other hand, Crowder’s defense remains something of a saving grace for him. Visibly focal and always applying pressure both along the wing and down low, Crowder embodies a strong anchor for this team to lead beside Chris Paul. His 5.4 rebounds per game reflect this well, especially once considering his lacking size for a power forward.

But when looking at his production from a general standpoint though, his offensive shortcomings still far outweigh his defensive fortitude. Time for Crowder to shake off the rust, and bounce back this week.