The Phoenix Suns, much like their division rivals in the Lakers, Warriors, and Clippers, made off with talented rookies in the 2024 NBA Draft. Those rookies however have questions in their games that they need to answer. Here is a question that each of the rookies on the Suns has to answer during the 2024-2025 NBA season.
One Question For Each Phoenix Suns Rookie
Ryan Dunn
Question: Can Dunn improve offensively?
The Phoenix Suns obtained the 28th overall pick, Ryan Dunn, in a trade with the Denver Nuggets, who received DaRon Holmes II in return. The Virginia forward is known for his prowess on the defensive end of the floor, being one of the best defenders in the class. He has the versatility, athleticism, and size to guard anyone on the court. Short of centers, he can seamlessly guard between the first four positions with ease. Simply put, Dunn can lock down any player he’s assigned, and that showed in Summer League. He kept up with guards along the perimeter. He provides rim protection despite his size at six-foot-eight. Without a doubt, Dunn was just everything he was advertised to be on defense.
However, Dunn’s offensive game does not match his defensive output in any way, shape, or form. He is lacking in almost every facet of offense aside from cutting, or in transition. The biggest question for Dunn is whether or not he can improve his offensive game to a more acceptable standard for an NBA player. For Dunn, he does not need to be the focal point of the offense, especially with the type of teammates he has in Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, and Bradley Beal. However, he must develop a jumper to not be a complete liability on the offensive end. If he can develop a jump shot and improve overall offensively, he would be the perfect role player to play in almost any situation. He would immediately have tons of minutes available to him and a clear role. Additionally, he wouldn’t be as exploitable as he is now.
Oso Ighodaro
Question: Can Ighodaro improve as a shooter?
The Phoenix Suns obtained the 40th overall pick, Oso Ighodaro, in a trade with the New York Knicks. The Knicks received Kevin McCullar Jr. and a future second via Boston from the Suns in exchange for the rookie. As a player, Ighodaro possesses a well-rounded skill set for a center, alongside high-level athleticism. Due to his athleticism, he can effectively guard across multiple positions and provide good rim protection. He has a good touch around the rim and is an excellent playmaker for his position. At Summer League, Ighodaro’s defensive prowess stood out as he had several defensive highlights, while the offense was lacking.
For Ighodaro, the big question surrounding him is whether or not he can improve as a shooter, especially from the free-throw line. His defense will certainly see him some playing time on the floor. However, if he can improve as a shooter, it will raise his floor as a player. As a prospect, one of his biggest weaknesses is his shooting, so further refining it would only help him. Furthermore, adding a jumper to his game would provide a dimension to the Suns that they currently don’t have. Ighodaro would uniquely have more opportunities if he could add a jumper. Also, if he can improve as a free-throw shooter, it will make him not as exploitable in late-game situations. He could safely provide his defense in clutch time without being a target for fouls. Regardless, Ighodaro must address this question to bring his game to the next level.
Jalen Bridges
Question: Can Bridges contribute immediately?
Jalen Bridges signed a two-way contract with the Phoenix Suns after going undrafted in the 2024 NBA Draft. On the court, Bridges can be a knockdown three-point shooter and have an impact defensively. He can guard across multiple positions and is capable of switching on defense. Furthermore, he has a good feel for the game on both sides of the floor. During Summer League, Bridges showcased his skills to good effect. He had several impressive shooting games and played defense with effort on every possession. Without a doubt, he had impressive performances to show what he can do for the Suns.
Given his 3-and-D skill set, the biggest question for Bridges is whether or not he can contribute immediately for the Suns. His skill set allows him to easily slide into any lineup and be effective next to stars. As an upperclassman, he should be more ready to contribute than a rookie would normally be. If he can be a factor, then he will have a clear role and minutes waiting for him. The Suns would get a wing who can replicate some of what Mikal Bridges once provided them. Additionally, Bridges would likely be given a standard contract for his play. If he can prove that he is ready to provide positive minutes, it will cement his place in the league.
