Devin Booker 2024 NBA Playoffs Scouting Report: Dissecting Phoenix Suns guard, impact and minutes

Following his success in leading the Phoenix Suns to the NBA Finals in 2021, Devin Booker has been determined to return to the biggest stage in the game. With the addition of two All-Star teammates this season, he now has a shot at accomplishing that goal.

Despite being considered a top contender for the championship at the start of the season, the Suns were plagued by injuries during the first half of the regular season. However, with only a few weeks left, they have managed to climb up the Western Conference standings and currently hold the sixth spot with a record of 45-31, securing them a spot in the playoffs without having to participate in the play-in tournament. If the playoffs were to begin at this moment, the Suns would be matched up against the OKC Thunder in the opening round.

The Suns are currently in a race to secure their spot in the playoffs as the regular season nears its end. They are currently half a game behind the fifth-ranked Dallas Mavericks, but are being closely pursued by both the Sacramento Kings and the New Orleans Pelicans.

Devin Booker career regular season statistics

In 2024, Devin Booker has continued to have a successful season and received his first All-Star nomination since 2022. Let’s take a closer look at the performance of the 27-year-old thus far.

Devin Booker’s Playoff Numbers

Since 2021, Booker has participated in 43 postseason games. During this time, the Suns have achieved a record of 25-18. Similar to many top players, Booker has demonstrated his ability to perform at a high level during the playoffs.

Assessing Strengths and Weaknesses

Devin Booker possesses numerous strengths on the offensive end. One of his main strengths lies in his exceptional shooting abilities, both from beyond the arc and in the mid-range. He is a threat on all three levels and is adept at contributing whether he has the ball or not.

When Chris Paul joined the Suns, Booker transitioned to playing shooting guard. However, after the Bradley Beal trade, he has returned to his role as Phoenix’s point guard. Since taking on this responsibility, Booker has excelled by recording a career-best in assists (6.9).

Despite being a strong player overall, Booker’s defense is an area where he may not have as much impact. While he is not a complete liability on the defensive end, he is not recognized as a two-way star.

Impact, Role, and Playoff Performance

Despite being young and at the peak of his career, Booker is expected to play significant minutes during the postseason. This is particularly important for the Suns, as they currently lack the depth they have had in previous years. With an average of 36 minutes per game in the regular season, Booker’s playing time is likely to increase to nearly 40 minutes in the playoffs.

As an elite scorer, Booker’s primary contribution will be on the offensive side. In addition to being one of the leading scorers for the Suns, he will also be facilitating opportunities for Kevin Durant, Bradley Beal, and other players. The combination of their strong presence on the court opens up the possibility for Phoenix to utilize Booker and KD in a pick-and-roll play.

With the amount of time he spends with the ball in his hands, Booker is expected to be the most influential player for the Suns during the postseason. He and Durant are expected to play the most minutes and contribute the majority of the team’s scoring.