Fansided

3 Phoenix Suns who definitely won’t be back next season

By Ian Levy

Mar 13, 2023; San Francisco, California, USA; Phoenix Suns center Deandre Ayton (22) smiles after making a half court shot before the start of the game against the Golden State Warriors at the Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 13, 2023; San Francisco, California, USA; Phoenix Suns center Deandre Ayton (22) smiles after making a half court shot before the start of the game against the Golden State Warriors at the Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 29, 2023; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Josh Okogie (2) reacts against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first half at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 29, 2023; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Josh Okogie (2) reacts against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first half at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Josh Okogie

Defensive versatility made Okogie a key part of the Suns’ rotation all season long, especially as injuries warped their intended rotations. He appeared in 72 games, starting 26, and averaged 7.3 points, 3.5 rebounds and 1.5 assists in just under 20 minutes per game.

However, Okogie’s inability to threaten the defense from the perimeter and space the floor was exposed against Denver. He shot under 40 percent from the field during the regular season and hit just 33.5 percent of his 3s. In the postseason, he made just 2-of-14 from beyond the arc and his playing time shrank a bit.

The Suns will need similar defensive players next season but will likely see if they can find someone who helps a bit more at the other end. Torrey Craig doesn’t have Okogie’s size and strength but he played a somewhat similar role and was a much more effective shooter. Both are free agents and Craig seems like he would be a higher priority to re-sign.

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