Ranking every Phoenix Suns player from Monday’s loss to the Denver Nuggets

Phoenix Suns players ranked in loss to the Denver Nuggets (5-8)

8. Duane Washington Jr.

Washington had the most hot-and-cold game of any Suns player, having gained extra opportunity thanks to the absence of Payne. Had an excellent second-quarter before being a primary reason behind his team’s demise in the fourth. The final minute saw him brick three jumpshots in jarring fashion, meanwhile Ish Smith nailed two clutch ones down the other end. There’s something to work with but those final plays were nothing short of ugly.

7. Torrey Craig

Started at power-forward in place of Johnson, recording three points, four rebounds and two assists in 20 minutes. Provides a consistent presence for Williams to plug in at any point, with his defensive abilities well renowned. Nothing spectacular in this one apart from a notable offensive rebound and dime for Ayton in the second-quarter.

6. Jock Landale

Up-and-down game but things are certainly trending positively for the surprise packet of the preseason. His offensive presence has been huge, even if he missed a couple of point-blank bunnies he’d normally make. Finished with ten points and six rebounds while making some huge plays late in the contest. The fact he can impact games while shooting poorly from deep is vitally important.

5. Damion Lee

Hardly outstanding but still his best performance in a Suns uniform to date. Lee recorded ten points while going 2-for-3 from deep, with that three-point percentage key in determining the amount of minutes he’ll see this season. Got beaten off the dribble a couple of times but can otherwise succeed in a team defense.