The 2024 NBA Draft is right around the corner, and a few fans aren't sure what the Phoenix Suns should do with their 22nd pick. Some have bought into the idea of trading away the pick on draft day. However, others have shown support in the front office keeping the pick to acquire a promising prospect.
Phoenix lacks youth in their roster as they are locked in on their pursuit to go "all-in" on contending for a title. Additionally, they need a few promising players in certain positions to strengthen the depth of their core.
The Suns could secure a promising player that could eventually help them down the line
There are a few reasons why the front office should keep their remaining draft pick. Here are some of them.
The Suns can get a steal with the 22nd pick
It's been proven that a gem of a player could be drafted even late in the first round. History has shown that there have been a few decent players who were selected with the 22nd pick. A few notable players that some fans might recognize are Grant Williams, Walker Kessler and Jarrett Allen. Not to mention, Bobby Portis was also selected with the 22nd pick, and he's had a solid career since entering the league.
For the Suns, they have a shot at acquiring a player who's ready to help them in their championship quest. A few players who could join the team soon are Tyler Kolek from Marquette University and Kyler Filipowski from Duke University.
Both players have more than two years of experience in college. The two college players have enough experience to jump the gate and help the veteran players. Just like the players who became draft day steals, they were the players who stayed in college long enough to be helpful in the pros.
Prepare for the post-Kevin Durant era
There's a chance that Kevin Durant could ditch the Suns soon. Although it's unsure when that will happen, there's a lingering question on Durant's loyalty. Developing the player that the team will draft this year might be a significant key in the long run.
If the Suns get to develop the prospect while they're under their rookie contract, the trade value for the player could increase. Now, trading Durant (if it comes to that situation) might not be a serious problem in the future. The front office will have an advantage down the line when it comes to getting something in return for KD with their 22nd pick.
Getting another star to help Devin Booker once Durant decides to leave the Suns will be important. The front office will benefit if they keep the pick this year and draft a promising prospect to be part of a potential package in the future.
A chance to draft Bronny James
It's not ideal to draft Bronny James since he wasn't impressive in his lone college season with the USC Trojans. However, a chance to draft the son of one of the greatest players in the league doesn't come often. James is expected to be selected late in the second round of this year's draft but has been linked to the Suns.
Rich Paul also says that there is no package deal option for LeBron and Bronny with the Suns or Lakers:
— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) June 19, 2024
"The Lakers can draft Bronny, and LeBron doesn't re-sign. LeBron is also not going to Phoenix for a minimum deal. We can squash that now." https://t.co/uQIOHV5Qev
The Valley needs a point guard to run the offense with their star-studded group. Bronny would be a decent fit for their squad as he can run the offense well. Scoring isn't his priority, which makes him a perfect floor general. He's also a great defensive player, given that many critics have praised his skills on that end of the floor.
Drafting Bronny might also be a chance to get his father to join the team. While that might not be significantly beneficial as it might give unwanted attention from critics.