Winning Streak Hurting Booker’s Top League Ranking!

Devin Booker’s career has had its share of setbacks, including a four-game sweep in the NBA Finals, a blowout loss in Game 7 of the 2022 playoffs, and a recent sweep by the Minnesota Timberwolves. Despite these setbacks, it is unfair to dismiss Booker in favor of players like Jayson Tatum and Anthony Edwards, who have been praised recently due to recency bias and their team’s success.

At 24, Booker led the Phoenix Suns to the NBA Finals. While they haven’t returned since, it doesn’t mean Booker has regressed. In fact, he has improved significantly. After struggling with his 3-point shooting in the Finals, hitting just 26.8% and going 0-7 in Game 6, Booker increased his accuracy to 38.3% the following season and has maintained over 35% since then.

Booker’s playmaking has also seen significant improvement. From averaging 4.3 assists and 3.1 turnovers in the 2020-21 season, he recently averaged 6.9 assists with just 2.6 turnovers, showcasing better decision-making. Additionally, his increased strength has enhanced his ability to finish around the rim and create separation.

Now one of the most versatile scorers in the league, Booker consistently scores from the perimeter, creates his own shots, and gets to the free-throw line. He has averaged over 27 points per game in the last two seasons, solidifying his status as one of the league’s top scorers. Despite this, Booker faces criticism due to winning bias.

Booker’s achievements, including leading the Suns to the Finals and a 64-win season, are often overshadowed. For instance, Anthony Edwards, after his first conference finals appearance, was prematurely crowned as a new league face. Although Booker’s team was swept by Edwards’ team, Booker’s individual performances, such as back-to-back 40-point games in the Finals, shouldn’t be overlooked. He also averaged 33.7 points and 7.2 assists with impressive shooting splits in last year’s playoffs.

Jayson Tatum, who recently won his first championship with a highly talented team, struggled early in the series but still garnered much praise. However, whether Tatum’s ring should automatically place him above Booker depends on individual perspectives on value.

The support players around stars like Tatum, Edwards, and Jalen Brunson significantly impact their success. With a deeper supporting cast, Booker could be a consistent Finals contender. Although these players aren’t in the same tier as elite stars like Nikola Jokic, Luka Doncic, Giannis Antetokounmpo, or Joel Embiid, they still have the potential to lead their teams to victory if placed in the right situations. Booker’s resume merits discussion alongside Tatum and Edwards.