Before we get into this, I have to make this clear: I don’t disagree with the short term process of Phoenix Suns general manager James Jones and his handling of the 29th overall pick. Landry Shamet, on the receiving end of that late-first round pick, is incredibly more likely to provide value to this team this year than anyone Phoenix could’ve picked at 29.
But it’s fun to use one’s imagination, so we’ll look at three of my favorite draftees taken 29 or later who may have offered solid value for Phoenix to add.
Jared Butler, 40th pick, rights traded to Utah Jazz
The 6-foot-3 maestro point guard that helped lead Baylor to a national title was primed to be the type of player that could learn well and eventually excel after spending time under a guy like Chris Paul.