Thaddeus Young was just added by the Phoenix Suns from the buyout market, and this team will prosper with him.
The Phoenix Suns had a quiet trade deadline, but they now have a reliable backup forward thanks to prior moves. In the meanwhile, point guards Dennis Schroder and Spencer Dinwiddie were traded, and Thaddeus Young was moved to the Brooklyn Nets.
But Young won’t be playing for the Nets again because Brooklyn waived him afterward. Young is already set to sign with the Phoenix Suns after he clears waivers, having already found a team.
Young brings depth to Phoenix’s front court and a seasoned leadership presence to a Suns squad that is hoping to challenge for a title. Young has played for a number of different clubs throughout his career.
Phoenix’s front court depth has been a problem, as they require a big man to regularly support Kevin Durant at power forward.
Young is a terrific presence off the bench and does a good job filling this role. Young can complete a pick and roll at the hoop or dish the ball to a shooter to attempt a long-range jumper. He is a competent passer from the forward position. Despite his low assist average, he has the ability to create opportunities for teammates.
He has a strong rim-work game and is currently leading the team in field goal percentage. Young is shooting little over 62% from the field this season, demonstrating his efficiency with the opportunities presented to him despite his limited playing time and shot volume.
Young is one of those guys that every team has longed to have, even though he hasn’t contributed more than an average of 20 minutes per game in almost five seasons. His most recent three-year contract with the Toronto Raptors shows that he can play his job off the bench and step into a starting one when necessary.
Young can stretch the floor when needed and can make shots beyond the arc, despite not shooting many threes this season and not having the best percentage. He will succeed, nonetheless, primarily because of his seasoned leadership.
The veteran’s extensive playoff experience and membership in numerous elite teams will be beneficial to the Phoenix locker room. In order to give the squad continuity, he will be able to offer that steady veteran option off the bench and that soothing presence in the locker room.
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Having players who can step in for the stars when they are out will be crucial, especially considering the Suns’ big three’s history of injuries. On times when Durant might be hurt or just need to rest, Young can step in. Young’s entry into the game will enable him to take Durant’s place and lessen the impact on the depth while KD is sidelined.
Overall, the Suns should consider the addition of Young to be a great steal because it gives them a reliable reserve player who will help them pursue their championship goals and offer experienced leadership.
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