Phoenix Suns 2022 Free Agents to Avoid: Thomas Bryant
On paper, Thomas Bryant resembles a fine addition for the Phoenix Suns. Stretching out to six-foot-ten with game-breaking athleticism, being a willing shooter, and just 24 years old, he checks several important boxes as a possible Deandre Ayton replacement.
However, the injury bug took a liking to him almost immediately after the Utah Jazz drafted him back in 2017. Between his rookie season with the Los Angeles Lakers and then his next four with the Washington Wizards, Bryant managed to play over fifty games just once, suffering from foot injuries and more recently an ACL tear.
If the Suns lose Ayton, Dario Saric then becomes the team’s next best big man, who suffered his own ACL tear last summer. For this Phoenix team looking to contend again next year, carrying two supposed lead centers (if Ayton leaves) that both are coming of ACL injuries feels somewhat risky.
Suns fans might still call for the team to sign Bryant though. Some might even remember his 14-14 shooting performance against them where he scored a career-high 31 points during the 2018-19 season.
If you remember that game, and look at his highlights, it sure is easy to point to Bryant and say “hey, I want that guy.” But his talents and overall upside are not enough to make him a good bet for this Suns team.