Davon Reed Goes 32nd in the NBA Draft to Phoenix Suns

Miami Hurricanes alumnus Davon Reed went with the 32nd overall pick to the Phoenix Suns. That was much higher than he was projected to go.

Reed was projected to go late in the first round or to go undrafted altogether. His selection just outside the first round had to be one of the biggest surprises of the draft.

Reed goes to a young Suns team. Phoenix leans heavy on its perimeter players. Devin Booker and Eric Bledsoe both averaged over 20 points per game last season. T.J. Warren gave the Suns some presence on the frontline. Brandin Knight only played in 54 games last season but has averaged over 17 points per game three times in his career.

Reed gives the Suns an outstanding perimeter defender and good shooter with a good all-around game. He blossomed as Miami’s leader this past season.

Reed led the Hurricanes in scoring and three-point and free throw shooting this past season. He was also named third-team all-ACC and to the ACC’s all-defensive team. Draft Express is high on Reed’s NBA Potential:

"“The 3 and D label is thrown around quite casually nowadays, but Reed truly has the ingredients NBA teams are looking for in this role. He’s 6′ 5.5 with a 7′ 0 wingspan and a projectable frame, is a very willing defender who competes and has versatility on that end (All-ACC Defensive Team), he spaces the floor comfortably (lifetime 37.8% from three on 646 attempts), and has a solid feel for the game…Reed should be able to step in and defend his position, knock down open shots and play smart within the system early on in his career. With NBA size and length, some defensive versatility, a solid shooting stroke, and impressive intangibles, Reed has a great chance to hear his name called in the second round and has a chance to work his way onto a roster as a two-way wing…Given some of his athletic limitations offensively (has very good feet defensively), Reed will have to shoot it efficiently in the minutes he does get, and make all the right reads in order to stay on the floor.”"

The Suns were an elite offensive team last season. They struggled shooting the three though and on the defensive end. Reed will help upgrade them on both ends of the court.

The Suns have an explosive roster offensively but need to bring in toughness and players that can bring it on the defensive end. Suns General Manager Ryan McDonough made that clear. Reed reiterated his role to the Sun Sentinel:

"“I know it’s a young team…They’re trying to change the culture defensively. They have a lot of talented, young guys. I’m looking forward to being a part of something special and working my way up.”"

Next: Miami Hurricanes NBA Draft First Round History is Meagher

Reed is the first Miami player drafted since Shane Larkin was a first round pick in 2013. That should change next year with the likelihood that rising Sophomore Bruce Brown and incoming freshman Lonnie Walker enter the draft.