Why Bol Bol should start for the Phoenix Suns next season

The Phoenix Suns have had a productive offseason, which included the surprise signing of former Orlando Magic big man Bol Bol. This addition comes at a time when the Suns have not solidified a fifth starter to join the All-Star quartet of Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, Bradley Beal and Deandre Ayton.

There is much debate as to who should fill the fifth spot in that line up, an Bol offers as intriguing a case as any to be the best option to round out the starting crew.

The guard positions are going to be filled with Beal and Booker, while Ayton will be the centre for the team. That leaves either forward spot open, dependent on whether Durant plays the small or power forward position.

This leaves the newly acquired big man as a perfect fit to complete the Suns’ starting five rotation.

Phoenix would be wise to play Durant in the small forward position, allowing Bol to then enter the line-up at the four. While there may be concerns about Bol’s defensive game, his offensive game helped the Magic early last season, when they were in the midst of an awful run of luck with injuries.

The big man averaged 9.1 points and 5.8 rebounds per game, hitting career highs and showing glimpses of what he can bring to the table. Bol can stretch the floor, leaving the paint free for Ayton to dominate, and give the team another option from deep. There was a period of time where he was shooting close to 40 percent from deep last season.

Bol moves uniquely for someone his size and has great handles, making him a threat to blow by defenders as well. Playing minutes alongside Durant and Ayton will also help Bol develop both on the offensive and defensive side of the ball too.

Although Bol’s stats dropped after starting his first 37 games for the Magic, that came after he was put into a reduced role for the rest of the season as a result of being moved to the second unit. His struggles on the defensive end are evident, however more minutes and a change of scenery could help unlock his defensive potential.

He averaged 1.1 blocks per game last season, and that number could grow with more minutes and coaching. Bol is fortunate enough to have 2020 championship coach Frank Vogel leading the Suns this season, who is a defensive-minded coach.

Vogel’s teams have always been elite at that end, with his championship winning Lakers having the third best defense the year they won it all. He brings out toughness in his players, and they appear to buy into a system that leads to results. While most believe Ayton will benefit the most from the hire, Vogel may be the coach to unlock Bol’s full potential as well.

His offensive gifts are there, which will help the scoring dominance of these Suns and help make life easier for the stars of the team. With Vogel’s assistance and given the time and starting role to flourish, Bol Bol could become a scary player for the Suns. This was a no-brainer move to get a player who continues to intrigue on a minimum deal, and Bol could yet become a starter.