2024 NBA Mock Draft 4.0: Spurs get 2 game-changers, Wizards land potential star at 1

21. Phoenix Suns take Juan Nunez

The Suns need young talent on rookie contracts to complement their current core. The second tax apron will limit the front office’s ability to improve their roster. Phoenix needs a backup point guard and will be looking for someone capable of contributing immediately.

Nunez has four years of professional experience in Europe and was on the Spanish National Team for the 2023 FIBA World Cup. This season, he is averaging 11.2 points, 5.2 assists, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.7 steals per game for Ratiopharm Ulm. The 19-year-old excels in the pick and roll and is one of the best playmakers in this class.

Nunez is 6’3 with a slight frame and subpar jumper. He has made 33.7 percent of his 101 3-point attempts this season. It could improve, but some scouts question his role. Lacking the shooting or athletic ability to separate, how effective can Nunez be in the NBA? He is likely best as a backup point guard early in his career, which is just what Phoenix needs.

Juan Nunez could excel running pick-and-rolls with Jusuf Nurkic or Kevin Durant. He can lighten the ball-handling and playmaking responsibilities of Devin Booker and Bradley Beal. The Suns won’t need him to score. Just set up his teammates and run their offense.