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

Phoenix Suns players ranked in loss to the Denver Nuggets.

4. Chris Paul

Not sure the motivation was entirely there, unsurprising for a veteran who’s simply awaiting the start of meaningful games. Attempted just four shots in his 29 minutes, while he spent large portions arguing with referees over non-calls. Still picked apart the Nuggets defense at times, finishing with six points, five rebounds and eight assists in a so-so display.

3. Devin Booker

The Suns star had an intriguing battle with Bruce Brown, the fiery Nuggets defender who’s made his way over from Brooklyn. Denver coach Michael Malone praised Brown’s efforts in the post-game, and well he might after keeping Booker to 5-for-17 from the floor. There may have been some preseason boredom from the 25-year-old who seemed intent on taking as many tough shots as possible, although that’s probably not giving Brown enough credit. Booker nailed all eight free throws to salvage his 20-point performance.

2. Mikal Bridges

Set the tone for Phoenix before being less prominent in the second and third periods. Bridges knocked down three of his five three-point attempts, finishing with 14 points, three rebounds and a team high +7 in plus-minus. We saw a little more from an offensive standpoint as well, with the fifth-year man dishing four assists and punishing smaller opponents in the post on a couple of occasions.

1. Deandre Ayton 

Ayton and Paul made mincemeat of Deandre Jordan in the pick-and-roll, with the former number one pick recording a 19-point, 11-rebound double-double. Looks every bit the same productive player as last season, while there were a couple extra wrinklings of isolation plays that should have fans excited. Missed a couple mid range shots he’d normally make, and was outrebounded by Jordan on a couple of occasions, but otherwise proved the Suns best and most efficient player on the evening.