Who is the one player that can change the Phoenix Suns’ fortunes in 2024?
PHOENIX — The Phoenix Suns are now blessed with a plethora of potential game-changers in 2024 after being forced to rely on players such as Landry Shamet throughout the stretch run of the 2023 season.
Eric Gordon, Grayson Allen, Jusuf Nurkic, Bol Bol, Royce O’Neale, perhaps even Bradley Beal all profile as x-factors that can be integral in a deep playoff run for the Suns – but who is the singular largest one in the grand scheme of this season?
We will leave Beal out of this exercise for the sake of competition – Beal would obviously be the top x-factor if included. Allen’s consistency has likely seen him graduated from the conversation as well.
Eric Gordon
Gordon’s likely been seen as the x-factor by many ever since the 16-year vet signed with the franchise back in July.
Gordon is one of the most playoff-tested players on the Suns – having 60 total games and 36 starts under his belt to this point.
Gordon’s skill set is a nearly flawless transition to postseason play – between the continual threat from 25+ feet, his ability to act as a secondary ball-handler and Gordon’s defensive versatility in coach Vogel’s system.
Perhaps most important of all is Nurkic’s ability as a connector.
The former Portland Trail Blazer is a fantastic passer, roll man, and screen setter – two of three things his predecessor did not excel at.
Nurkic’s ability as a passer opens up many possibilities for a Suns’ offense that is chock full of great shooters
Bol Bol
The talented big man has certainly been a polarizing figure among Suns fans and basketball fans at-large alike, but the former member of the Orlando Magic has bucked many preconceived notions over the last month.
Bol has managed to play much more under control and has cut down on careless turnovers as of late.
