Who is Suns' Biggest X-Factor as Playoffs Near?

Gordon is one of the most playoff-tested players on the Suns - having 60 total games and 36 starts under his belt to this point. 

Gordon's skill set is a nearly flawless transition to postseason play - between the continual threat from 25+ feet, his ability to act as a secondary ball-handler and Gordon's defensive versatility in coach Vogel's system. 

Gordon is absolutely an integral piece down the stretch.

Jusuf Nurkic

Nurkic has been a difference maker for Phoenix and then some - outpacing his predecessor in many ways in his first season in the Valley. 

The Bosnian big man had a rough start in Phoenix, particularly as a play finisher and rim protecter, but the seven-footer has responded to the slow start in spectacular fashion. 

Nurkic has been one of the most slept-on defensive anchors this season - his seemingly improved mobility along with playing in a defensive scheme that's better suited for him appear to be big reasons that have catalyzed the leap in play.

Perhaps most important of all is Nurkic's ability as a connector. 

The former Portland Trail Blazer is a fantastic passer, roll man, and screen setter - two of three things his predecessor did not excel at. 

Nurkic's ability as a passer opens up many possibilities for a Suns' offense that is chock full of great shooters. 

Bol Bol

The talented big man has certainly been a polarizing figure among Suns fans and basketball fans at-large alike, but the former member of the Orlando Magic has bucked many preconceived notions over the last month.

Bol has managed to play much more under control and has cut down on careless turnovers as of late.

Bol has also found a niche defensively within the system - having done a great job of shadowing strong offensive players such as Alperen Sengun during the recent stretch of games. 

Royce O'Neale 

O'Neale has fit every bit as well as anticipated since being traded to Phoenix nearly three weeks ago.

O'Neale has been an elite connecter, has been valuable defensively in multiple ways, and has simply added more rotational flexibility for the stretch run prior to the postseason.

The wing has been apart of 40 playoff games - he instantly becomes yet another battle-tested player that fits right into what the Suns are trying to accomplish from a roster construction perspective

Verdict: Eric Gordon

All four of these players will clearly have some sort of role in the prospective playoff run, but Gordon has proven to be a vital piece in a team that nearly won a championship in the past - and his brand of play likely yields the highest risk/reward ratio in 2024.