B/R Says Suns Should Try This Wild Lineup in 2023
Though you can't skate by on talent alone, it would be awfully hard for the Phoenix Suns to mess around and not reach expectations of a high playoff seed after 82 regular season games.
The Suns have one of the best big three's in the league with Bradley Beal, Kevin Durant and Devin Booker along with center Deandre Ayton in the starting lineup. A mix of talented vets and young players with upside complete a Phoenix bench that should be capable of helping fill minutes when needed.
There figures to be times where the Suns aren't close to full strength on the court, which can lead to some interesting lineups brought on by new coach Frank Vogel.
Bleacher Report recently went through each team's "wild lineup" that could potentially be used, and Phoenix's was indeed... wild.
B/R Says Suns Should Try This Wild Lineup in 2023
Eric Gordon, Josh Okogie, Yuta Watanabe, Keita Bates-Diop and Deandre Ayton
Andy Bailey: "As tempting as it is to roll with any combination involving the Phoenix Suns' four max players, let's go with what we'll call the "boost Deandre Ayton's trade value" lineup.
"Eric Gordon would get his opportunities in this group, but Ayton would undoubtedly be the No. 1 option.
"With Gordon, Keita Bates-Diop (39.4 percent from deep last season) and Yuta Watanabe (39.0 percent for his career) spacing the floor, Ayton would have ample space to operate and score inside.
"While it would make sense to go with another shooter like Damion Lee in that final spot, a little grit, defense and rebounding from Josh Okogie isn't a bad option."
That lineup certainly spaces the floor, though Jordan Goodwin could easily slide into the point with Gordon replacing Okogie. Also interesting Bol Bol wasn't involved somehow considering the potential he shows.
