Phoenix Suns Potential Mistake: Neglecting the Team’s Latest Need
On paper, the Suns look loaded at the point guard spot. Chris Paul obviously headlines the group, and Cameron Johnson established himself as a premier sixth man last season. Having started every game for the New York Knicks last year, Elfrid Payton also rounds things out with some added experience.
Make no mistake about it, Paul looks excellent once again this year. But when you move past your preconceived notions of Payne and Payton, Phoenix looks a bit thin with their ball handlers.
Although Payne still comes through with some fine moments each night for the Suns, his 3-point percentage has plummeted this year by double-digit percentage points. His field goal percentage has also dropped from 48.4 percent to 39.5 percent, and he finds himself averaging a career-high 1.9 turnovers per game.
Whether this digression occurred due to Payne playing an increased 20.4 minutes per game this year, or just with more teams figuring him out after a career-year last season, he might need a bit more help successfully handling the load behind Paul.
Payton contributes to this potential need for another point guard as well. Even with his limited run time considered, Payton finds himself struggling to score, averaging his fewest points per 36 minutes since his rookie campaign. His .402/.200/.531 shooting splits all represent career-low marks for him as well.
With these two struggling and with Paul carrying an unfortunate injury history especially during the playoffs, the Suns might want to keep an eye out for a low price, effective point guard to add as another insurance option.
Cory Joseph strikes as a favorable target being a former NBA Finals winner, someone attached to a cheap contract, and with solid numbers this year. But at this point, anyone who handles the rock well and spaces the floor should suffice.