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Associated Press

No. 1 pick

Deandre Ayton vs. Luka Doncic

The Phoenix Suns will look at a handful of prospects if they win the lottery. There isn't an overwhelming No. 1 player this year. But according to many scouts, Ayton and Doncic appear to have separated from the pack into a tier of their own atop the board.

Pros, Cons of Ayton

Pros

Alex Len will be a free agent. Marquese Chriss and Dragan Bender haven't made convincing cases through two seasons. Phoenix could use a big man like Ayton as another potential go-to scoring option in the lineup next to Devin Booker. With an immaculate physical profile and inside-out skills, he averaged 20.1 points on 61.2 percent shooting, ranking in the 90th percentile on post-ups while showing enough range to knock down 12 threes and 16 of 41 medium jumpers.

Cons

The Suns are the worst defensive team in the league, per ESPN.com, and Ayton was exposed as a poor defender. He shows poor awareness, and despite incredible strength and length, his 6.1 block percentage is underwhelming.

Pros, Cons of Doncic

Pros

The draft has never seen an international prospect as accomplished as Doncic, who leads Euroleague in player efficiency rating at 19 years old, per RealGM.com. Phoenix could have a unique backcourt if it plays him at the point. He's a 6'8" ball-handler with terrific pick-and-roll feel and passing instincts.

Cons

Doncic won't improve the Suns' awful defense. As well, though he's an effective facilitator, he may be more of a secondary playmaker without blow-by burst. Between Doncic and Booker, Phoenix could struggle to get penetration, and it wouldn't have a true assist man.

Plan B: Trade down for defense

Rim protectors Mohamed Bamba and Jaren Jackson Jr. fit best in Phoenix based on the Suns' needs. They're too risky to take at No. 1, though. Phoenix may want to explore trading down a few spots in an attempt to land a defensive-minded anchor for the lineup, plus an additional asset for the price of giving up the top pick in the draft.