The Phoenix Suns addressed their need at power forward this summer by acquiring Miles Bridges in a trade, adding another athletic scorer to their revamped roster.
One of the main questions entering the season is how Bridges will fit with the defensive-minded identity Phoenix established last year.
At 6-foot-7, he provides size and athleticism, but his role could require him to contribute in areas beyond his usual strengths.
Throughout his seven-year career, Bridges has primarily operated as a finisher rather than a creator for teammates, averaging 2.8 assists per game.
However, Phoenix could benefit from him taking on more playmaking responsibility.
With Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks and the Suns’ centers expected to occupy significant roles in the starting lineup, Phoenix doesn’t have many natural facilitators.
Bridges becoming a secondary or tertiary creator could give the offense another dimension.
That could be particularly important after the departures of Grayson Allen and Royce O’Neale, two of the team’s better three-point shooters.
Their exits may force Phoenix to find different ways to create efficient offensive opportunities.
Bridges also enters the final season of his three-year contract, giving him additional motivation to establish his long-term value.
Showing that he can provide more than scoring, athletic finishes and lob opportunities could strengthen his case for a new deal with the Suns.
