PHOENIX — ESPN’s latest list of top NBA sophomores didn’t mention Ryan Dunn. The Phoenix Suns, however, are betting their season on him.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The ranking includes last year’s Rookie of the Year Stephon Castle, first overall pick Alex Sarr and other talented second-year players. However, the 28th overall pick was not mentioned anywhere in the article. Of rookies to play 60+ games, Dunn was 16th in scoring (6.9) and 13th in rebounding (3.6).
Apr 11, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Ryan Dunn (0) dunks against the San Antonio Spurs during the second half at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
Suns wing snubbed from top 10:
1. Reed Sheppard (Rockets)
2. Stephon Castle (Spurs)
3. Zaccharie Risacher (Hawks)
4. Matas Buzelis (Bulls)
5. Donovan Clingan (Trail Blazers)
6. Alex Sarr (Wizards)
7. Kel’el Ware (Heat)
8. Jaylen Wells (Grizzlies)
9. Jared McCain (76ers)
10. Nikola Topic (Thunder)
Dec 19, 2024; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Ryan Dunn (0) against the Indiana Pacers at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Dunn appeared in 74 games but only started 44 games and averaged 19.1 minutes per appearance. With the departure of Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal, Dunn will have his minutes significantly increased. How his counting stats and role in the offense develops in his sophomore season with a more prominent role.
The current roster’s construction will force the 22-year-old to have to play at the power forward position, and while the modern NBA is positionless, the 6’6 wing will have a lot on his plate to guard some of the bigger forwards in the league. Phoenix lack viable wings in the lineup, with Dunn and Dillon Brooks being one of the few on the roster.
Mar 30, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Houston Rockets guard Jalen Green (4) drives on Phoenix Suns forward Ryan Dunn (0) in the first half at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images
The Suns are going to give Dunn plenty of responsibilities for the 2025-2026 season, and how he’ll respond will likely be the determining factor if the team can make a serious push for the Play-In.
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
