2018 NBA Mock Draft: If need were all that mattered

“I know I’m the No. 1 pick.”

That’s what Ayton, who will only visit the Suns heading into the draft later this month, said following his workout Wednesday in Phoenix. He appeared so confident in his responses for the duration of his media appearance that one reporter had to ask for clarification regarding Ayton’s actual certainty about getting picked by Phoenix first overall. Ayton responded that his positivity was simply a result of his overwhelming self-confidence, but judging by what he and general manager Ryan McDonough said at the podium, it’s tough to imagine the Suns picking anyone else.

The idea behind picking Ayton is simple for Phoenix. Aside from the athleticism and skill that has made pundits deem the decision a no-brainer for Phoenix since they won the draft lottery in May, the team’s need at center is pronounced. With Tyson Chandler nearing the end of his career, Alex Len fighting for his next contract on a new team and Alan Williams injured all year, the position was a black hole for the Suns. There was no consistency of style, let alone production. Dragan Bender and Greg Monroe also spent time in the middle.

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Drafting Ayton would create certainty at the position for the first time since Amare’ Stoudemire occupied it. He left to sign with New York in 2010. While there are questions about defensive instincts, shooting and positional fit, they’re questions a team like the Suns, so starved for talent, are willing to live with given the opportunity to draft a talent like Ayton.