Suns 2024 NBA Draft Grades for Every Pick

The Phoenix Suns entered the 2024 offseason with a familiar challenge: building a contender around their star core of Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal. While their offensive firepower is undeniable, the Suns’ Achilles heel was exposed once again in the 2024 playoffs: a lack of elite perimeter defense. General manager James Jones addressed this need head-on in the 2024 NBA Draft, prioritizing defensive versatility and haste with his selections. Let’s take a look at each pick and analyze how they fit into the Suns’ championship aspirations.

Phoenix Suns’ NBA Offseason Priorities for 2024

This offseason, the Suns faced several pressing priorities. However, they were constrained by their position in the second bracket of the luxury tax. This status limited their flexibility, making necessary changes difficult to implement. They do not have a mid-level or biennial exception to sign free agents, and cannot acquire players via sign-and-trade or use trade exceptions. As such, their options were limited. They could still make trades, but could not take back more salary than they sent out.

One of the biggest needs right now is an upgrade on their front line, specifically to replace Drew Eubanks, who has joined the Utah Jazz. Yes, Eubanks showed improvement towards the end of the postseason. That said, his overall performance during the 2023-24 season leaves room for questions.

Jusuf Nurkic, their starting center, has been the subject of trade rumors leading up to the 2024 NBA Draft. He currently remains listed. Changes at the center position seemed inevitable in the starting lineup or rotation, which likely influenced the Suns’ decision to draft two big men.

Below are some numbers for every player the Phoenix Suns selected in the recently concluded 2024 NBA Draft.

No. 28: Ryan Dunn, PF, Virginia

Ryan Dunn, one of the best defenders in college basketball, had an athleticism that was somewhat obscured by Virginia’s slower pace. Known for his explosiveness and defensive skills, Dunn is also a capable cutter. That’s a skill that should be enhanced with the Suns’ spacing. His shooting, however, is a major point of attention. If he can develop a respectable outside shot, Dunn could secure a long-term role in the NBA. However, he’s not yet a perimeter threat.

Dunn’s potential to make an immediate impact lies in his defensive capabilities, where he can take on challenging assignments against top players. However, his offensive limitations are clear. His inconsistent jump shot and limited offensive skills will require significant development. Despite these concerns, his defensive impact fills a critical gap for the Suns.

Phoenix provides an ideal environment for Dunn given his current offensive limitations. With stars like Durant, Booker and Beal shouldering the scoring burden, Dunn can focus on his defensive strengths and lighten the defensive load for his teammates.

Grade B

No. 40: Oso Ighodaro, C, Marquette

The Suns have limited resources to build around their core while circumventing the limitations of the secondary. However, they maximized their draft chances by selecting defensive stopper Dunn at No. 28 and then adding Oso Ighodaro at No. 40. Ighodaro brings passing, athleticism and defensive versatility to the center position. At 6’10, Ighodaro is an instinctive passer and mobile enough to handle defensive switches. This is a valuable asset for the Suns.

Ighodaro’s game does have some notable weaknesses, though. Like Dunn, he lacks the ability to shoot and isn’t a dominant paint protector. This makes him a tough fit for many lineups. Despite these limitations, his athleticism and mobility offer intriguing potential.

Phoenix needs immediate contributors, and Ighodaro’s skill set could provide an interesting dynamic to the center rotation. His ability to handle the ball and pass has drawn comparisons to the Warriors’ Trayce Jackson-Davis.

Grade B

Post-concept additions

After the draft, the Suns signed Jalen Bridges, a 6’6 wing from Baylor. Bridges is another player with significant defensive potential. He is known for his active hands and versatility in defending multiple positions. While his offensive game is still developing, Bridges has shown promising results during summer workouts and could develop into a valuable contributor down the road.

Looking forward

The success of the Suns’ draft class hinges on the development of Dunn and Ighodaro. If they can refine their offensive skills while maintaining their defensive intensity, the Suns will have taken a significant step toward building a championship-caliber team. Their defensive potential is undeniable. With the offensive firepower of Durant, Booker and Beal, the Suns may finally have the formula to conquer their playoff demons. Yes, questions remain about their offensive production. However, the Suns’ 2024 draft haul has the potential to solidify them as a defensive force in the NBA.