3 players the Suns should consider drafting in the second round of the 2024 NBA draft

The Phoenix Suns managed to come out of the first round of the 2024 NBA Draft with a pretty impressive prospect on their hands, bringing in an elite perimeter defender in Virginia forward Ryan Dunn. Phoenix was able to acquire Dunn after trading with the Denver Nuggets.

The Suns had one more chance to add a role player to the mix, acquiring the No. 56 overall draft pick from Denver in this deal.

If the Suns don’t end up getting rid of this pick in an attempt to secure more future assets, there’s a good chance Phoenix ends up adding a role player who will be acclimated to professional play early on. Among the many surprising first-round drops, these three stand out as the best possible picks for the Suns.

1. Justin Edwards, SF/SG, Kentucky

Edwards was a blue-chip recruit who never really caught on at Kentucky. Perhaps having to share the ball with two top-eight picks, Reed Sheppard and Rob Dillingham, stifled his growth. Getting a fresh start as a bench player in Phoenix could be just what he needs.

Edwards has tremendous defensive intensity and his athleticism is off the charts. On a thin Suns bench that needs all the help it can get to support its trio of stars, Edwards is a perfect high-flyer at this point in the draft.

2. Adem Bona, C, UCLA

Phoenix’s lack of size and rim protection was a major reason they broke out in the playoffs, and Bona remains one of the best two-way big men available. Although the Suns may have to move up slightly from 56 to 56 to get him, his talent is well worth the extra investment.

Bona made 62 percent of his attempts in college and blocked just under two shots per game during his time with the Bruins, making him more pro-ready than most of the big tool men that sit in this fork. Given Phoenix’s depth here, Bona could contribute during his rookie season.

3. Bronny James, PG, USC

The rumors about Bronny won’t go away anytime soon. Mat Ishbia loves having stars, Phoenix is ​​one of the few teams Rich Paul would even let James communicate with, and the need for a defense-oriented playmaker is still there. If any place suits Bronny well, it’s Phoenix.

James is very raw as an offensive player because he has to show that his jumper is worth investing in. If he can do that, his motor and defense will be enough to carry him to a respectable pro career as the Suns try to push back. to relevance.