PHOENIX — Devin Booker grew up in Grand Rapids, Mich., as a devoted Detroit Pistons fan. He keyed on Ben Wallace’s energy, Chauncey Billups’ steadiness, Rasheed Wallace’s tenacity and Tayshaun Prince’s versatility. Most important, Booker devoured YouTube clips of Richard Hamilton, studiously trying to convert Hamilton’s picturesque shooting form to muscle memory. Like those Pistons teams, Booker’s Phoenix Suns are founded on finding the open teammate in this year’s playoffs, and then trusting in him to make the shot. They spread the ball and stretch defenses, a strategy that has allowed their best options, but also role players like Mikal Bridges, to star in the N.B.A.

Source: New York Times July 09, 2021 12:00 UTC