Locked On Suns Wednesday: The Stepien’s Jackson Hoy on Deandre Ayton, Mikal Bridges, Elie Okobo and De’Anthony Melton

On today’s episode, Jackson Hoy of The Stepien joins the show for the first time since June’s draft. What did he think of the Suns acquiring Deandre Ayton, Mikal Bridges, Elie Okobo and De’Anthony Melton?

First, we kick it off with Okobo and Melton. Both players have similar measurements, but are polar opposites in terms of what they can contribute right now. How does Jackson view Phoenix’s strategy on this, and which one has a brighter future?

Also, we touch on the possibility of the Suns rolling into this season with Shaquille Harrison, Okobo and Melton as their point guard rotation. Would Jackson be comfortable doing that until a bigger deal arises later on?

Ayton’s defensive potential becomes a big focus. Does Ayton’s switching ability allow for Phoenix to properly construct an above-average defense around him? His rim protection ability as an anchor will be something to monitor long term, but if he could fill the Clint Capela role, it could go a long way in mirroring possible pre-draft concerns.

Finally, is Bridges the glue that will make Devin Booker and Ayton perform better? If Bridges improves his playmaking ability, does this make Josh Jackson eventually expendable in a star trade? We also talk about the potential perimeter trio of Bridges, Jackson and Melton surrounding Booker and Ayton.

This is a fun one, so tune in!

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher or Spotify, or listen to this episode below!

Follow on Twitter: @LockedOnPhxSuns, @JHoyNBA, @esidery, @BrendonKleen14