With injuries affecting key players Jalen Green and Grayson Allen, the Phoenix Suns are contemplating a promotion for Collin Gillespie to the starting lineup. This development comes at a crucial juncture, allowing the team to evaluate Gillespie’s potential contributions as a starting point guard.
Throughout the season, Gillespie has shown a solid ability to manage the offense effectively. His steady presence has been vital in games, exemplified by a recent performance against the Atlanta Hawks where he achieved a +18 plus/minus, signaling a positive impact during his time on the court.
In contrast, his teammate Ryan Dunn struggled during that game, ending with a -24 plus/minus. Gillespie’s impressive showing included scoring 9 points during a significant second-quarter surge, while Dunn’s troubles began early, as Atlanta built a 13-point lead.
While plus/minus can reflect broader team dynamics rather than individual effectiveness, it’s important to assess these metrics over a series of games for a well-rounded evaluation.
As the Suns anticipate Allen’s return within the week, the timing is ideal for the team to explore Gillespie’s compatibility with star player Devin Booker. This period of roster examination also allows for the possibility of Dunn returning to a bench role where he has thrived, as evidenced by his net rating of +24.6 as a reserve compared to -2.1 as a starter.
If Gillespie steps into the starting role, it could lead to better synergy among the first unit while maintaining defensive intensity across the roster. His defensive metrics reflect potential: an A- in ball screen navigation, an A- in off-ball chaser defense, and an A in pickpocket rating, indicating his capability to contribute in critical areas.
This shift in the lineup offers the Suns a chance to evaluate player interactions within the starting group, looking for insights that could shape the future of the team. Promoting Collin Gillespie to a starting position is not only a strategic adjustment to counter current injuries but also a forward-looking move aimed at building a foundation for sustained success.