Suns Pre-Draft Workouts Day 6: The Power Forwards Have Arrived, Portis and Looney

Two projected top twenty picks were at US Airways Center this morning working out for the Suns, 6'10 PF Bobby Portis and 6'9 PF Kevon Looney. Another notable prospect at the workouts this morning was 6'5 SG Pat Connaughton from Norte Dame.

Bobby Portis

What Bobby Portis lacks in explosiveness he makes up for in his endless motor and hustle, which he showed today during the three minute run. Portis also has great mobility allowing him to drive past his defender to the basket. Portis isn't the best post defender or shot blocker because he plays under the rim. However, he works hard and could develop into a solid defender. Portis could fill the stretch four role for the Suns while also displaying a solid post game. He shot 41 percent on all jump shots last year, including 43.5% from mid-range. He didn't take many threes last year, only 0.8 per game but he connected on 46.7% of his attempts. Portis showed his range today during the shooting drills. He was able to expand his range to behind the NBA three-point line.

In his interview he talked about his shooting form, his hardships growing up, and how he fits with the Suns:

Kevon Looney

Looney has potential to be a great player in the league. He is only 19 years old and a great athlete with the ability to knock down jumpers. Looney is great rebounder, he used his length and athleticism to lead UCLA in rebounding last season with 9.2 per game. He has the physical tools to become a good defender and shot blocker. He will need to bulk up to be able to guard power forwards in the post. Like Portis, Looney can stretch the floor with his jump-shot. He too showed his ability to make NBA range three-pointers during the shoot around. He hit 41.5% of his threes at UCLA.

In his interview Looney talked about the pre-draft workouts process, his fit with the Suns, and his position at the NBA level:

Pat Connaughton

Connaughton is mostly known for his sweet shooting stroke, he hit 42% of his threes last season. At the combine he showed off another part of his game, his athleticism. He posted a 44 inch max vertical, surprising most of the people in attendance. His defense needs work but he is a good rebounder at the shooting guard position. He also has an endless motor and works hard every play. He won the three minute run today with 27 court lengths.

In his interview Connaughton talked about what he can bring to the NBA, his vertical jump, and what it's like being a two sport athlete:

Danny Granger and Eric Bledsoe were both at the practice court today watching the prospects as well as working on their own game.

Jeff Hornacek talked about the prospects from day 6 while Eric Bledsoe practices his dribbling in the background: