Collin Gillespie Shines in Close Loss to Hawks, Poised for Starting Role
Collin Gillespie's performance on Sunday was a standout moment in an otherwise tough 124-122 loss to the Atlanta Hawks. Despite coming off the bench for the Phoenix Suns, Gillespie came just a few steps away from achieving a triple-double, a remarkable feat that speaks volumes about his potential. The 24-year-old guard finished the game with 15 points, eight rebounds, seven assists, and two steals. While he didn’t quite hit the triple-double mark, he made a significant impact in multiple areas, showcasing his well-rounded game.
What was especially notable about Gillespie’s performance was his ability to step up in a critical moment. His +18 plus/minus on the night highlighted the positive influence he had when he was on the floor, even though his team ultimately fell short. In contrast, his teammate Ryan Dunn struggled, finishing with a -24 plus/minus. Gillespie’s ability to step up during key stretches of the game, like the pivotal second-quarter run where he added nine points, underlined his potential to make an impact when it matters most.
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This performance is likely to boost his case for more prominent minutes moving forward, especially with the Suns currently navigating injuries to key players like Jalen Green and Grayson Allen. With Allen expected to return soon, Phoenix finds itself in a crucial position to evaluate its roster. The prospect of Gillespie being moved into the starting lineup is looking more and more likely.
Gillespie’s consistent playmaking and solid defensive metrics—like his impressive grades in ball screen navigation and pickpocketing—are key factors in his bid for a starting role. His defensive ratings, including an A- in off-ball defense, prove that he’s not just an offensive player, but one who can contribute on both sides of the ball. The Suns are still in an exploratory phase, figuring out the best way to structure their lineup. Gillespie’s potential fit alongside star player Devin Booker could provide much-needed balance, particularly in the starting unit.
The strategic shift could also help Ryan Dunn, whose net rating has been significantly better as a reserve. Dunn's struggles as a starter (-2.1) are in stark contrast to his strong bench performances (+24.6). If Gillespie is promoted to the starting lineup, it might give the Suns a more stable rotation and a clearer identity moving forward.
Ultimately, this is a key moment for the Suns as they assess their future lineup. With Gillespie showing his versatility and strong basketball IQ, his promotion to the starting five could not only help the team now but also lay the groundwork for future success.
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