Collin Gillespie Deserves the Start Amid Suns Injury Troubles

Phoenix, Arizona – With injuries sidelining key players Jalen Green and Grayson Allen, the Phoenix Suns are considering a shift in their starting lineup, potentially giving Collin Gillespie a chance to play a pivotal role.

Gillespie has demonstrated his capability to command the offense effectively whenever he is on the court. His control leads to a more settled team dynamic, a crucial factor as the Suns navigate through this challenging stretch.

In a recent matchup against the Atlanta Hawks, Ryan Dunn earned a starting position over Gillespie, a decision that raised eyebrows given the outcome. Gillespie recorded a +18 plus/minus figure, contrasting sharply with Dunn’s -24 during the same game. However, plus/minus stats can often be misleading and influenced by other players on the court.

During a notable second-quarter performance, Gillespie tallied nine points, contributing significantly to the team’s momentum shift. That said, Dunn’s poor rating also coincided with the Hawks’ early scoring surge.

As the Suns evaluate their options, Gillespie’s performance provides them with an opportunity to assess his readiness for a starting role. The return of Allen within the coming week should stabilize the team, but utilizing this window to gauge Gillespie’s abilities can be valuable.

“It’s not just about who starts; it’s about who finishes,” noted a team analyst. Gillespie faced critical moments down the stretch, showcasing his resilience and potential despite a -13 rating during those final minutes.

Gillespie has demonstrated considerable potential, particularly in areas crucial for a point guard, such as ball screen navigation and off-ball defense. His current performance grades reflect dedication and skill, further indicating his readiness for increased responsibility.

Should Gillespie get the nod, it would allow Dunn to transition back to his more effective bench role, as his better performances have often arisen when coming off the bench. This strategic change has the potential to enhance both the starting and reserve units, providing the Suns with a more balanced rotation.

The Suns are not in a position to rush their young talents into play, but the current injury predicament allows them to carefully evaluate their lineup. Gillespie has earned an opportunity to show how he can aid the team’s early-game performance and overall strategy.

The focus on development, as emphasized by General Manager Brian Gregory, highlights the Suns’ commitment to building a competitive team that efficiently integrates younger players without compromising the current roster’s performance.

Every game presents a chance for Gillespie to prove himself, and the coming weeks will be critical in shaping the team’s future direction.