Suns’ new addition is expected to be a breakout candidate in 2023-24

Oct 12, 2023; Portland, Oregon, USA; Phoenix Suns head coach Frank Vogel encourages his team before a game against the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 12, 2023; Portland, Oregon, USA; Phoenix Suns head coach Frank Vogel encourages his team before a game against the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Phoenix Suns have a very talented roster. Of course, we know about the Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beals of the world that are headlining this team. Let’s also not forget Josh Okogie and Jusuf Nurkic, who will round out the starting lineup, likely giving them the best in the league.

But they have other guys, too. They have guys on the roster who I like to call “dude” who just are hoopers. They do what you need them to and are good at it. Casual fans may not know about some of those guys on the Suns’ roster, but plenty exist. They have guys on the roster who will wow opposing teams and opposing fans when the Suns play them. They have some secret weapons.

More importantly, they have a guy who is considered to be a breakout candidate for the Suns in the 2023-24 season. The Athletic did one possible breakout player for each team entering this upcoming season and picked a great one for the Phoenix Suns.

"Grayson Allen: Allen has averaged double figures in scoring three of his five NBA seasons, so it’s not like this is an extreme pick. It’s just Allen gives Phoenix exactly what it needs: versatility in the backcourt, someone who can play on the ball or off, and, more importantly, an edge. With so much focus on Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, and Bradley Beal, Allen should have scoring and playmaking opportunities. Defensively, he must do what he does best — be a pest. — Doug Haller, The Athletic"

Allen will benefit greatly from being the guy who likely steps into that sixth-man role. He has shown that he can be a great player without those stars on the floor and be a great player with them on the floor. We know he will play defense and can shoot, too, but his ability to finish at the rim so far this preseason has surprised too.

Allen can certainly be a breakout player. Having started 70-odd games for the Milwaukee Bucks last season, he will also be a candidate for the Sixth-Man of the Year Award this season.