THE 2024 National Basketball Association (NBA) Draft is rapidly approaching, with each team making their final preparations ahead of adding some young talent to the best competition in the world.

There are some seriously impressive prospects available, with the crop stretching all around the globe as more international players begin to gain recognition. Suddenly, the collegiate system is not the only method to joining the NBA, which has allowed a broader range of players to compete at the top level.

With the NBA wrapping up the 2023/24 season as we speak, the teams already eliminated have spent the past few weeks considering which players they will select to prepare for the future, and the recent Draft Lottery saw the official order determined.

With that in mind, Rookie Me Central will be taking a look at each team and how their draft will potentially pan out on June 26-27. With all 30 sides in their own unique situation, there is plenty to unpack ahead of the next injection of exciting players.

Under the microscope today are the Phoenix Suns, who disappointed in the playoffs despite a stacked roster, and earned a higher pick than many predicted.

Phoenix Suns

Draft Selections

22

Contracted Players

Kevin Durant, Bradley Beal, Devin Booker, Jusuf Nurkic, Grayson Allen, Nassir Little, Eric Gordon (player option), Josh Okogie (player option), David Roddy (team option), Damion Lee (team option), Drew Eubanks

The Phoenix Suns came into the season with heavy expectations due to the star-studded trio of Durant, Beal and Booker, and while all three are contracted for next season and the team should be in contention again, the draft is a perfect opportunity to add some young talent.

Phoenix’s sole selection comes at 22, and the team could swoop on a player that falls lower than expected if they’re lucky.

One option that the Suns will be hopeful falls into their hands is Isaiah Collier, who would fit Phoenix’s current arsenal perfectly. Collier is a point guard that loves to get downhill and play with pace, and his ability to find space behind the defence would be ideal for the Suns, who would surround him with plenty of spacing.

The addition of a point guard would also lighten the load on Booker, who was forced to play more of a facilitating role since Beal was traded to the team. Collier orchestrating the offence would allow the team’s trio of stars to get better looks from the field.

A second option for Phoenix could be Kyle Filipowski, who is a forward from Duke. Given the Suns are in their championship window with this roster, a ready-made contributor would also be ideal for the team as the look to push for the tile next season, and Filipowski fits that bill.

A forward/centre who can stretch the floor as well as make impressive passes, the big man would slot into the rotation nicely, and at seven foot, would bring height to the roster as well.