2024 NBA Mock Draft: Blazers take game-changer, Spurs get star at 1
By Tyler Watts
27. Phoenix Suns (via Memphis Grizzlies) draft Juan Nunez
The Suns went all-in this summer by trading for Bradley Beal and completely overhauling their bench. Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Beal are arguably the best Big 3 in the league and many are picking the Suns to win the Western Conference.
Phoenix lacks a true point guard and their avenues to acquire talent are extremely limited by the second tax apron moving forward. The Suns must target a ball-handler in this draft.
Nunez is in his fourth season of professional basketball. The Spanish point guard is the starter for Ratiopharm Ulm where he has averaged 9.8 points, 6.0 assists, 3.3 rebounds, and 1.5 steals in 23.4 minutes each night through six contests. He is getting an expanded opportunity and taking advantage of it thus far.
The 19-year-old played for Spain at the 2023 FIBA World Cup where he averaged 5.0 points and 5.2 assists in 19.2 minutes per game. Nunez has a ton of experience and is one of the best passers in this class. The 6’3 guard gets everyone involved and loves making plays.
The Suns are the perfect fit. Juan Nunez must improve his jumper and defense to reach his ceiling, but he can just set things up for the Big 3 in Phoenix. It will allow him to showcase his passing ability and lead to plenty of dimes.