Selected 28th overall, Ryan Dunn's performance and development will be crucial as he aims to secure a spot on the Suns amid a reshaped roster.
Ryan Dunn was selected at number 28 in the 2024 draft, marking a significant moment in his career as he joins the Phoenix Suns. His journey to secure a role on the team is complicated by increased competition, particularly from new forwards who have recently joined the roster. Dunn started 44 of the 74 games he played for the Suns last season, indicating that he has already established a level of trust with the coaching staff, but the landscape has changed since then.
Last season, Dunn demonstrated his defensive capabilities, being part of six of the top steals-producing lineups for the Suns. His contributions were also evident in rebounding, as he was on four of the six lineups that had positive total rebounding statistics. These metrics suggest that Dunn has the potential to impact the game positively, particularly in defensive and rebounding situations, which are critical for the Suns' success.
Offensively, Dunn's three-point shooting percentage improved to 33.1% in the 2025-26 season, a development that the Suns needed to see. His ability to push this percentage over the 35% mark will be vital for his viability as a rotational player. If he can continue to elevate his shooting while maintaining his defensive contributions, he may solidify his place on the team despite the influx of new talent.
However, skepticism remains among fans regarding Dunn's potential to carve out a consistent role. The narrative surrounding his performance suggests that while he has shown flashes of promise, the pressure is mounting for him to perform. With new players vying for minutes, Dunn's ability to capitalize on his opportunities this season will be crucial, as he risks losing playing time to competitors like Rasheer Fleming.