Phoenix Suns: No. 32
The Phoenix Suns are in a precious spot. They obviously do not have their desired pick, given the lottery sent them four spots down the order, from No. 2 to 6 in shocking fashion. It was disappointing for them, but there are options to fill their long-needed point guard spot.
Sixth overall can attain Darius Garland or Coby White. Ja Morant won’t fall that far. Although if the Suns don’t like Garland or White, they can turn elsewhere for their next lead distributor.
The No. 32 pick sits in a perfect spot to send to the New York Knicks for Ntilikina. It’s in the middle of that rumored, desired asking price. Plus, this is another young player to add to a team with Devin Booker and Deandre Ayton leading the way.
The Suns may not want to sit through Ntilikina’s development, with their difficulties letting previous first-round picks find their groove, like Dragan Bender and Marquese Chriss. They have intriguing parts, but none of them have formed the cohesive group necessary to make noise in a crowded Western Conference.
Ntilikina might not be that answer, but he is worth the low risk. Otherwise, Elie Okobo is the next player up, and while still young, the Suns can find superior options.
Even if Ntilikina is not a point guard, he can still fit into the middle of the lineup, much like other teams ahead of Phoenix in this part of the draft. This organization has little to lose taking a chance, either way.