Phoenix Suns: Predicting player stats for 2022-23 – Ish Wainright
Across September, Valley of the Suns will deliver predicted stat lines for all 16 players currently contracted to the Phoenix Suns for the 2022-23 season.
Versatile forward Ish Wainright is back with the Phoenix Suns this season, joining Duane Washington Jr. on a two-way contract. The 27-year-old was used sparingly last season, but did enough in limited game-time to warrant an upgrade to the Suns full roster prior to the playoffs.
The former Raptor played 45 regular season games in 2021-22, averaging 2.4 points, 1.2 rebounds and 0.3 assists in eight minutes per game.
Ish Wainright returns to the Phoenix Suns on a two-way contract, but now with more opportunity to be a regular member of this season’s rotation.
Wainright’s versatility, especially defensively, is what’s going to give him the chance to be a consistent member of the Suns rotation. Primarily a power-forward, he could slide down to the three if his shooting improves, or even gain minutes as a small-ball five given his strong 6’5″ frame.
The three-point shooting is undoubtedly the most important element here. If he can become reasonably reliable and consistent, say 35%, then that’ll open up plenty of playing opportunities for him. If not, then he becomes an offensive liability that falls into the same basket as Torrey Craig and Josh Okogie – both of which are on the main roster.
Wainright did shoot 42.9% on corner three-point attempts last season, providing optimism that he could improve from the 32.2% he shot from beyond the arc. He also shot under 40% from the field, a mark he’ll certainly need to correct in 2022-23.
Overall, Wainright should be able to gain a little more playing time last season, and therefore slightly increase his averages across the board. The 50-game limit on a two-way deal isn’t a huge concern – he can be converted to a full contract at any point, should Phoenix maintain an open spot on the roster.