Although the Phoenix Suns should adapt their offensive style slightly, drastic changes are unexpected.
Let’s be clear – while Paul remains the franchise’s starting point-guard, things are unlikely to significantly change. Once again, Phoenix will attempt to defy 17 years of history that suggests Paul’s offensive playstyle cannot lead a team to a championship.
If that’s a fair judgement to make, then adjustments need to be made to some extent. That starts with Paul and his capacity as a three-point shooter. His 3.1 attempts per game were the least in his last 11 seasons, with his 31.7% shooting from deep his worst since his rookie season.
We recently dissected Ayton and what he can do to become an All-Star calibre player. This includes demanding a few more shot attempts per game, primarily through developing a three-point shot and become a more dominant paint presence.
As presently constructed though, the Suns’ ceiling is predicated on where Booker elevates to as a player. In Paul’s absence late in the regular season, he showed flashes of playmaking potential that should excite Suns’ fans.
Unlike Paul, Booker is an elite three-level scorer who can create offensive spacing for his teammates to take advantage of. Giving Booker more playmaking duties will provide greater opportunities for drive-and-kick plays.
Phoenix ranked third in three-point catch-and-shoot percentage (38.2%), yet attempted the 25th most in the league. That might ultimately be the biggest point of emphasis for Monty Williams and the team’s leaders.
The Suns will retain their offensive identity for the most part, but eliminating some mid-range jump shots for threes and shots at the rim could prove fruitful as they seek to overcome the championship hurdle.