What Should Suns Do With Three First-Round Picks?

At the NBA bottom now, the Suns could be rising IF they make the right moves.

The Suns’ future will get brighter as they approach the upcoming NBA Draft. That’s because Phoenix has three first-round draft picks.

And because the Suns have the worst NBA record currently (at 20-61), that gives Phoenix high odds to land the first overall pick. The other two picks come from the Bledsoe and Dragic trades.

The Suns could trade one or more of their picks. But with the pool of talent entering this Draft, I think it would be smart to keep all three.

DeAndre Ayton, player of the future (photo, Yibada)

When it comes to that talent, one name that keeps popping up is Arizona center DeAndre Ayton. He could immediately improve the Suns’ lack of inside presence. At  7’1’’ and with a unique skill set, Ayton is a perfect fit for the Suns.

And luckily for the Suns, Ayton is interested. “Honestly, I could see myself in Phoenix. I could see a little Shaq and Kobe 2.0” (with Booker),” Ayton said in an appearance on CBS Sports Radio.

If the Suns pick Ayton first overall–which I believe they should–then this team would have a young and balanced starting five: Payton, Booker, Jackson, Bender, and Ayton. Ulis and Warren would be prime for coming off the bench.

Booker is the key player in that starting five and he’s also showing interest in staying with the Suns. “With year three over with, I feel like I’m more comfortable with the NBA and know what to expect going into next year having to lead by example. Next year starts now for me,” Booker said. “I say that’s my next step, being vocal but at the same time leading by example. That’s one thing I’m going to be thinking about a lot going into next season.”

Sun’s GM Ryan McDonough has been open about how the Suns will listen to Booker when discussing draft options and free agent signings.

The sun seems to be rising in Phoenix.

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Updated data as of April 10. Sources: ArizonaSports.com