Power Forward
Starter: Ryan Anderson
Depth: Dragan Bender, Darrell Arthur
Anderson lowered the guaranteed amount of money on his contract to facilitate a trade from Houston, and without a better alternative, figures to slot into the starting lineup — at least until the Suns shelf their veterans down the stretch of the season. Anderson will provide much-needed floor spacing and veteran presence for a young team, and can capably slide between both frontcourt positions, allowing him to fit with most any combination of the Suns’ young players.
Phoenix is undoubtedly hoping for Bender to usurp Anderson as the starter — as that would indicate major leap from Bender — but his first two seasons in the league have not inspired great confidence that he will get there this year. Bender played in all 82 games and made significant strides as a shooter last season; he has instincts and size. But most all other facets of NBA basketball have vexed Bender, whose efficiency and impact pale in comparison to Anderson.
Arthur may not be more than an insurance policy, but could see minutes late in second quarters.