Suns Add Hope in the Form of GM Ryan McDonough

As of Tuesday the Phoenix Suns have hope once again.  This time it’s in the form of new GM Ryan McDonough.  McDonough at the young age of 33, has spent the past decade with the Boston Celtics.  On ESPN 620 with Burns and Gambo, he told his story.  McDonough started from the ground up in Boston, by creating his own entry level position - editing scouting videos.  Eventually since he looked at so much film on players, his oppinion was asked from time to time.  Through his hard work and determination, McDonough would work his way up the ranks to become the Celtics Assistant GM.

McDonough is highly touted for his scouting ability.  When respected GM Danny Ainge says that “he’s played a huge part in our success” and that McDonough is like a son to him, that’s a good sign.  He lobbied for the Celtics to draft players like Rajon Rando and Bradley Avery.  Being as the Suns could have as many as 9 draft picks within the next two years, scouting talent will be key. 

Whether it is a lottery pick or the last pick in the first round, McDonough will have to make it count.  On the air he openly admitted it will be a long process.  Even Sarver admitted on ESPN 620 that they will be in a rebuilding process, and although he has trouble waiting for success, he must be patient. 

Winning in the NBA revolves around finding “the guy”, the stud of your team that everyone covets, and then placing enough talent around him to succeed.  The Thunder found Kevin Durrant and drafted well around him.  The Heat signed their “guy” and signed others for support.  Based on what we know about McDonough, it seems like the drafting route is in store for us.  The question is, will we be lucky enough to find our “guy”?

The number one priority for the new GM is finding a coach, which is already in the works.  It has been said Lindsey Hunter is a candidate but popular belief is his consideration is more of a formality.  McDonough will most likely want to put his stamp on the team, which means a fresh face. 

Speaking of fresh faces, we may see a lot of new ones in a Suns uniform next year.  Since we now seem to be committed to rebuilding, players like Luis Scola or Martin Gortat may find their way on another team.  Not because they are poor players but because they do not fit along with the “youth movement”. 

After being investigated for sexual assault, Michael Beasley may finally find his way off of the Suns roster as well.  A vastly under performing Beasley has been one of the main targets for Sun’s fans woes.  This may be just the excuse needed to finally cut ties.  When asked about Beasley on the air, both Sarver and McDonough responded with “no comment” (Sarver even repeated it about 4 times). 

Suns fans will have a lot to look forward to in the coming months.  New GM, new HC, and a mostly new roster.  Personally I am most interested to see the directed McDonough decides to do in the draft.  It has been said he rates players based on their averages, not highs or lows, simply because you want to know what kind of output you can rely on every night out of a guy.  Below are a few of my favorites.

Victor Oladipo SG - High motor, great athleticism.  Has ability to be a slashing scorer but may lack ability to score in isolation situations.  Great lockdown defender.

CJ McCollum PG/SG - Has ability to be a creative scorer and put up 20 a night.  May lack athleticism of other top prospects.  Stock in draft has been rising.

Anthony Bennett SF/PF - “Tweener” forward with very high ceiling.  Athletic with ability of finishing near the rim and shoot with range.  Could have a hard time fitting in offense due to unique sizing.

Nerlens Noel C - Freak athlete with natural defensive ability.  Injury may cause some hesitation, plus will need to learn offensive skills.

Ben McLemore SG - Can catch and shoot well and work off of screens but may have issues creating his own offense.  High flyer and extremely athletic but has lapses defensively.  Not consistent from night to night in scoring output.