As we continue to count down the league’s best players, this article focuses on Devin Booker. Since entering the league in 2015, Booker has been an elite scorer. Additionally, Booker has a complete offensive game and all-around impact. More recently, Booker has emerged as a clear franchise cornerstone on a team competing for a title.
Top 25 NBA players 2023-24: No. 8 Devin Booker
A Prolific Three-Level Scorer
The main part of Booker’s game that stands out is his incredible scoring ability. Booker is a skilled shot-creator and is an elite scorer from all areas of the court. This elite ability has led Booker to average at least 25 points in each year since 2018. In addition to being one of the best scorers in the league, Booker is a gifted playmaker and impactful defender. This makes Booker one of the league’s most well-rounded players. While Booker hasn’t made significant statistical improvements in recent years he has become a more polished scorer, a much better defender, and an improved passer. Furthermore, Booker is a proven playoff performer with great performances in both the 2021 and 2023 playoffs. This proven playoff resume solidifies Booker’s elite ranking.
Season Recap
After a disappointing playoff finish in the 2022 playoffs, the 2022-23 Suns faced pressure to make a move heading into the season. At the trade deadline, the Suns sat at 6th in the conference. Booker was having an extremely productive season despite dealing with a groin injury. The Suns ultimately landed Kevin Durant at the trade deadline, a perfect co-star next to Booker. Phoenix would finish 4th in the West, setting up a first-round matchup with the Clippers.
The Suns would beat the injury-plagued Clippers in five games. The Clippers were missing Paul George for the entirety of the series and Kawhi Leonard for the majority of the series. Nevertheless, Booker was brilliant, averaging 37 points and 6 assists during the series. He followed this up by averaging 30 points against the Nuggets including 47 point outburst in a game three Suns win. While the Nuggets ultimately won the series, Booker’s stellar play will always be memorable.
Season Outlook
During the off-season, the Suns doubled down on their star power and offensive talent by trading for Wizards star Bradley Beal. As a result, Booker is surrounded by incredible talent and like-minded shot creators. Additionally, the Suns rounded out their roster nicely with quality role players and have very solid depth. The Suns project to be one of the best teams in the West and will compete for a title. A title run would perhaps further raise Booker’s ranking. If Booker’s statistical production continues as well as Durant’s recent regular season injury history, then Booker could be in the mix for MVP. Furthermore, the offensive talent of this Suns team gives them incredible upside. It’s no coincidence that Phoenix has given Booker the best roster around him as his true prime begins.
The Last Word on Devin Booker
Ultimately, Booker is a near-complete young star approaching his true prime. He is extremely well-rounded but thrives as a scorer. Booker has proven he can win at the highest level and play with any style around him. As a result, Booker is an extremely special and valuable player.
