2019 NBA Mock Draft: Fallout from Zion Williamson’s injury gives others a chance to shine
2. player. 66. . F. Duke. Cam Reddish
The Suns are trying to build through the wing so it makes a ton of sense that they might consider the 2019 class’ most gifted young wing with their top pick. Since drafting Josh Jackson fourth overall in 2017, the Suns’ copycat strategy of stockpiling wings and building through the most important position in the modern game has stuck out immensely. After Jackson, Phoenix drafted Davon Reed in the second round, traded for Mikal Bridges in the 2018 draft, signed Trevor Ariza in free agency, then flipped Ariza for an even younger wing, Kelly Oubre Jr. It’s a clear priority in Phoenix.
While the team has struggled to find consistent time for Jackson, Bridges, Oubre and 2015 first-round pick T.J. Warren, the value of young wings also sets the Suns up for flexibility in moving players. Warren is signed to a value contract the next three seasons while Bridges and Jackson are still on rookie deals, meaning Phoenix drafting another guy to compete with the others for minutes is very realistic.
We’ve seen Reddish be more aggressive and comfortable with the ball in his hands lately, launching 3s off the bounce and taking defenders off the dribble.
I’m a week late but oh my god Cam Reddis pic.twitter.com/unoaRIpFH8
— Brendon Kleen (@BrendonKleen14) February 26, 2019
Duke was able to handle the quick pace against North Carolina in part because Reddish took on some shot creation with Zion Williamson injured. Reddish finished with 27 points on 23 shot attempts, his most attempts of the season. It provided a glimpse of Reddish’s potential as a second option — the results aren’t pretty yet but with a smooth jumper and incredible length, there’s a reason to be optimistic.