Suns 2026 NBA Draft grades for every pick

Instead of Phoenix’s previous mentality of signing proven players, they’ve gone all in on the NBA Draft. 2025 rookies Rasheer Fleming and Khaman Maluach proved what is possible with the correct development, and Peat might fall in the same category.

That’s not to say Peat will receive ample minutes on the Suns’ main roster. His position is in a logjam with guys like Fleming, Ryan Dunn, Dillon Brooks, and Royce O’Neale.

The first two are exceptional defenders, both on the perimeter and inside, while the latter two are offensively driven but have a more well-rounded offensive game.

This is where Peat’s unique skill set comes in.

He’s a 6’8 bulldozer with exceptional athleticism who thrives in the paint. But his outside game needs some serious refining for him to be a key part of the rotation.

35% from the 3-point range isn’t a bad metric at all, but taking less than one attempt per game might raise some eyebrows. Nonetheless, snagging him when Phoenix did is a win.

An inside-out group of forwards with massive potential and a chip on their shoulders is what the front office seems to have put together.

The Suns’ grade for their 2026 NBA Draft performance

Suns grade: A-

Giving up more draft picks to jump up in the draft isn’t ideal, even if they are second-rounders. Also, sending extra cash can come back to bite them if they are walking the fine line between the luxury tax and the first tax apron.

Still, aiming for potential, fit, and most importantly, character, again fits the bill of what the front office. It might’ve been a reach to jump 16 spots, but considering Peat’s credentials as a winner, it’s warranted.

He had the option to go back to college for a sophomore season, where he could’ve had a higher draft stock.

But Peat bet on himself and found his chance coming courtesy of the Suns. A winner who has to start back from ground zero after being a proven winner can make or break someone.

He’ll have his chance to do just that in the coming weeks during the NBA’s Summer League in Las Vegas. Phoenix plays four games from July 10-15. One of the most stacked rookie classes will be there, but Peat can prove to be the cream of the crop.