The Phoenix Suns have produced a wave of results since the turn of the century. Guided by a two-time MVP in Steve Nash, the franchise had a successful stint in the opening decade, headlined by back-to-back Western Conference Finals appearances.
But after 2009-10, the Suns became a perennial lottery team doomed to the depths of the NBA standings. Finally, after ten straight seasons without a playoff appearance, Phoenix have re-established themselves as a championship contender over the past two years.
The Phoenix Suns drafting over the century has unsurprisingly mirrored their on-court performances. They’ve developed some into absolute gems who you could consider steals, while others have delivered underwhelming results.
After going through the best selections yesterday, here are the franchise’s most disappointing selections that they came to regret shortly after the pick.
5. Kendall Marshall
This may seem a little harsh, but the reality is that most lottery picks play more than 160 career games. Most of them also last more than 18 months before being waived by an NBA team.
That’s what happened with Marshall. After being taken with the 13th overall pick in 2012, the 6’4″ guard averaged three points and three assists in 48 games with the Suns before being dealt to the Washington Wizards.
After being abruptly waived by the Wizards, Marshall showed some promising signs for the Los Angeles Lakers. He played 54 games with them (45 starts) and averaged eight points and nearly nine assists per game.
He had further stints in Milwaukee and Philadelphia without success, eventually retiring from basketball in 2017 after 160 games and just over five years in the system.