Phoenix Suns: 3 Things to do with Frank Kaminsky when Ayton Returns

The Phoenix Suns name Frank Kaminsky the full-time backup center and make JaVale McGee a specialist

As an exciting but often inconsistent center, McGee might actually thrive under a “sparkplug” role, rather than one dumping significant minutes onto him. Instead, let those minutes trickle down to Kaminsky, who deserves them, and will need them once Ayton returns.

Under this scenario, Kaminsky comes off the bench first for the Suns whenever Ayton needs a breather or falls into foul trouble. As the game goes on, such circumstances should allow him to rack up roughly 20-22 minutes per game. That certainly gives Kaminsky enough time to make an impact, while still keeping Ayton as the featured center.

Staying at the five, Kaminsky reassumes the same role he has thrived under lately, just with Cameron Payne playing as his point guard a bit more often than Paul. So far though, Kaminsky has illustrated chemistry with both Payne and Paul, so expect his smooth play to continue under these circumstances, rather than digress.

The missed opportunity to pair Kaminsky with Bridges comes as one notable issue with this scheme though. Seemingly out of the blue, those two flashed great chemistry as well during this recent stretch, which will go missed.

But even with that, this looks like the most likely system for Monty Williams to implement once Ayton comes back. It ideally benefits the team, Ayton, Kaminsky, and even McGee whether he realizes it or not.