1. Cameron Payne re-discovering form
One of the bigger playoff issues was the dwindling form of backup point-guard Cameron Payne. Having been a crucial element to Phoenix’s run to the Finals last year, his inconsistencies led to a reduced role in the latest postseason.
Payne’s playoff minutes reduced from 19 to 13.2, while his scoring more than halved from 9.3 to 4.2 points per game. His struggles left Williams no choice but to often play Landry Shamet, a pure shooter, alongside Booker in the backcourt when Paul was off the floor.
The Suns need Payne to return to some strong form, giving them a strong presence behind Paul in the backup point-guard role. If he can’t provide that, then they made need to investigate a trade or free agent acquisition to fill that position.
2. Bench Depth
The discussion on Payne also stems into the issue of overall bench depth and the reliable options Williams has at his disposal.
Cameron Johnson may be one of the best sixth men in the league, however the remainder of the bench options were well and truly tested against the Mavericks.
Shamet was good in patches but remains somewhat of a question mark, while Williams would only usually utilize one of Bismack Biyombo or JaVale McGee, with the latter now having left in free agency.
Torrey Craig was a situational player for defensive purposes, with Williams unwilling to look at other guard options like Elfrid Payton and Aaron Holiday (also left in free agency).
Fortunately, the Suns have reason for optimism on this front. The return of Dario Saric should give them another big man option, with the wing depth strengthened by the acquisitions of Josh Okogie and Damion Lee.
As mentioned, if Payne can return to the form we’ve seen in the past, then once again the Suns’ bench can be seen as a point of strength rather than one of weakness.