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SunsRank: The competition intensifies as we enter the Tier 2 and Tier 3 rankings

Is Beal in Tier 2 alone? Who should be fourth, fifth, and sixth? Let the discussions begin.

Sacramento Kings v Phoenix Suns Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images

The debate over the hierarchy of talent within the Phoenix Suns has once again ignited a spirited discussion as we kick off our annual SunsRank evaluation. Like dropping a match on a haystack of opinions, it’s getting hot in here (but I will not take off all of my clothes, Nelly). This year, we’re once again deep-diving into the subjective exercise of ranking players based on how they measure up to the concept of “best.” It’s a challenging task that invites a rich array of perspectives, whether you lean on statistical metrics or rely on nuanced observations of their impact and potential.

In our latest SunsRank edition, we closely examined the cases for Devin Booker and Kevin Durant, who were both strong contenders for the top spot. Ultimately, Durant edged out Booker amount our writing team, but the competition was exceptionally tight, underscoring the caliber of both players and their significant contributions to the team.

Our community gave the edge, however, to Devin Booker:

I’d like to meet the 9 voters who think that someone else is the best player on the Suns. Is there an underground Bradley Beal faction that spends their nights in musty rooms discussing topics such as “Brad Beal doesn’t get enough love?” while watching fourth-year Beal highlights? Tell me more...

Anyways...

As we delve into the next tier of players, Bradley Beal stands alone, having secured the third position across the board in our rankings. Or has he? <insert ominous music> The consensus, with the exception of a lone dissenting opinion from Bright Side’s I.J. Hamilton of the Suns Planet Podcast, places Beal firmly in this spot.

We want to hear from you, our passionate community of fans and analysts. To gauge whether the current consensus aligns with your own views, we’ve included a poll below. Cast your vote and share your thoughts on whether Bradley Beal rightfully deserves his Tier 2 placement, or if there are other perspectives that should be considered.

Poll

SunsRank: Is Bradley Beal in Tier 2 alone?

This poll is closed

  • 67%
    Yes. He is the third best player on the Suns.
    (184 votes)
  • 15%
    No, he is not the third best player on the Suns.
    (41 votes)
  • 16%
    No, another player is in Tier 2 with Beal.
    (46 votes)
271 votes total Vote Now

Okay, let’s get off the Beal conversation. Thinking of his contract alone still gives me cold shivers on warm summer nights.

As we delve into Tier 3 of the Phoenix Suns’ roster, a fascinating competition emerges among Jusuf Nurkic, Grayson Allen, Royce O’Neale, and newly acquired point guard Tyus Jones. According to Bright Side’s comprehensive rankings, this quartet represents the next echelon of talent and underscores the depth of the Suns’ roster. Each player brings unique strengths to the table, contributing to a well-rounded and formidable seven-man rotation.

How do they fall in Tier 3 for you? Are you like me, putting Big Nurk Daddy 4th overall on the team because “give a shit” is just the type of subjectiveness you like to quantify in summertime player rankings? Or is Grayson Allen your cup of tea, sipped softly whilst eating a crumpet and enjoying highlights of made three-pointers? Or is the FNG, Tyus Jones, the fourth-best guy on the team?

I’m interested to hear where these players land on your lists.

Poll

SunsRank: Who is the 4th best member of the Phoenix Suns?

This poll is closed

  • 52%
    Grayson Allen
    (142 votes)
  • 20%
    Jusuf Nurkic
    (56 votes)
  • 0%
    Royce O’Neale
    (1 vote)
  • 20%
    Tyus Jones
    (55 votes)
  • 5%
    Bradley Beal
    (15 votes)
269 votes total Vote Now

Poll

SunsRank: Who is the 5th best member of the Phoenix Suns?

This poll is closed

  • 31%
    Grayson Allen
    (78 votes)
  • 34%
    Jusuf Nurkic
    (86 votes)
  • 3%
    Royce O’Neale
    (9 votes)
  • 29%
    Tyus Jones
    (73 votes)
  • 0%
    Other
    (1 vote)
247 votes total Vote Now

Poll

SunsRank: Who is the 6th best member of the Phoenix Suns?

This poll is closed

  • 8%
    Grayson Allen
    (19 votes)
  • 32%
    Jusuf Nurkic
    (75 votes)
  • 16%
    Royce O’Neale
    (39 votes)
  • 40%
    Tyus Jones
    (94 votes)
  • 2%
    Other
    (6 votes)
233 votes total Vote Now

Poll

SunsRank: Who is the 7th best member of the Phoenix Suns?

This poll is closed

  • 0%
    Grayson Allen
    (1 vote)
  • 9%
    Jusuf Nurkic
    (22 votes)
  • 72%
    Royce O’Neale
    (165 votes)
  • 10%
    Tyus Jones
    (25 votes)
  • 6%
    Other
    (15 votes)
228 votes total Vote Now

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