The Phoenix Suns are weighing options for their starting wings with Dillon Brooks out. As Devin Booker returned from injury, a decision was made to keep Jalen Green in the starting lineup, while Ryan Dunn comes off the bench.
However, a significant portion of fans believe Jalen Green should lead the second unit.
Fan Concerns Over Starting Role
Concerns stem from Green’s inconsistency and perceived lack of size. Despite two strong games this week, a 20-point performance shooting 44% against the Kings and a 25-point, 47% shooting performance against the Pelicans on Friday, he had an inefficient game Thursday. In that game against the Bulls, he shot 25% from the field on 20 shots.
The fifth-year guard has struggled to adapt to the Suns’ offense while recovering from a hamstring injury. His career-low three-point shooting percentage of 27% has negatively impacted the team’s deep shooting.
When Green plays, the Suns shoot 34.8% from three, compared to 36.3% when he is not on the court.
Potential Benefits of a Bench Role
Moving Green to the bench could allow him to utilise his playmaking skills more effectively. He would have more opportunity to do what he’s best at alongside Grayson Allen.
Allen is making the most threes per game of his career by more than half a triple per game. Green clearly needs more room to operate as he continues to work his way back from his long absence.
Impact on Team Chemistry
With Mark Williams out for the next few weeks, Green’s move to the bench would not disrupt chemistry significantly. Oso Ighodaro has already stepped into the starting center position with Williams sidelined.
The second unit is already undergoing adjustments.
The Suns have won three of their last four games. They are firmly in the race to finish with a top-six seed.
According to FanDuel, the Suns’ Win/Loss total is set at 45.5, meaning their line is 9.5 games more than the amount they won a season ago.
Whether the fans’ assessment is accurate is still to be determined.