The preseason gave fans a taste of the 2024-25 NBA season. The Phoenix Suns have only played two games – which isn't the best sample size to evaluate anyone. However, some players, like rookie forward Ryan Dunn, played with so much enthusiasm.

The young striker has given fans something to look forward to this season, aside from how the Big Three will play. In two games, Dunn played intelligently on both ends of the court. The 28th pick of the 2024 draft played 23 minutes in his preseason debut against the Los Angeles Lakers. This was followed by a 16-minute game against the Detroit Pistons.

For a rookie drafted late in the first round to play 23 minutes is immense. But everyone knows that they won't be able to reach that time at the start of the season. Given his respectable performance in the first two games, it begs the question of whether the Suns should offer Dunn playing time early in the season.

For the first time since 2020, the Suns have rookies on the roster. The addition of Dunn and Oso Ighodaro (40th pick) may not matter to others. However, their formation has given the squad a boost of energy on both ends of the floor.

Dunn was praised for his ability to defend other players. The Virginia Cavaliers rookie has proven that his defensive skills and awareness are on par with the NBA's best. In his debut game, fans saw that the striker knows when to take advantage in defense.

The same case occurred in their game in Detroit, where he faced star guard Cade Cunningham a few times.

The energy he brings is something championship teams typically brag about in their young players. For example, when the Toronto Raptors won the title in 2019, Pascal Siakam was only 24 years old and showed incredible energy in everything he did.

Comparing him to Siakam might be a bit of a stretch since no one knows if Dunn will have the potential that the former Raptors star has. But his style of play is still exactly what the Suns need as they try to bounce back with almost the same team. It's also refreshing to see a young player prove himself to be a reliable contributor to a team fighting for the title.

His teammate Tyus Jones complimented him on his performance after just two games. Receiving high praise from his veterans could impact his place on the team.

“I see fearlessness. Taking shots with 100% confidence, playing defense aggressively and not batting an eyelid. That’s huge, especially as a rookie.”

– Jones on Dunn's latest piece.

Offensively, the rookie still needs more work. In college, the 6-8 forward wasn't known as an outstanding outside shooter. However, Dunn briefly showcased his ability to hit 3-pointers against the Pistons; All he has to do is be consistent.

Overall, the Suns will benefit from Dunn's commitment, drive and boldness. His joining the rotation would mean a player might have to give up a spot. Which player might drop out of the starting lineup is a question for another day.