Dunn was the star of the game against the Kings Friday night, will he continue to get minutes?
As a rookie in the NBA, playing time can come and go. A player may lose steam due to the grueling 82-game schedule or even suffer an injury because their body isn’t yet prepared for the drastic shift in physical demands from college to the NBA. Adapting to the game can lead to fatigue and mental exhaustion, making it difficult to rely on a rookie to consistently bring the winning energy that earns fan appreciation and teammate support. It’s a completely new way of life, an introduction to a job filled with exhilarating highs and crushing lows.
For Ryan Dunn of the Phoenix Suns, there won’t be an easy answer for his DNP games or brief stints off the bench. Sometimes playing less than a minute to close out a quarter. But like many Suns players, his focus is on staying ready, maintaining a calm mental state, and being available when his number is called.
“I would say not even the defensive end; just life,” Dunn said after playing 33:29 last night in a win over the Kings, his third-highest minute total this season. “I cannot be upset. I’m playing NBA basketball. I’m a rookie, it’s the stuff that I’m gonna go through. Whatever I gotta do to get back on the floor is what I tried to do”
Ryan Dunn on his approach despite inconsistent minutes: “I would say not even the defensive end; just life. I cannot be upset. I’m playing NBA basketball. I’m a rookie, it’s the stuff that I’m gonna go through….Whatever I gotta do to get back on the floor is what I tried to do” pic.twitter.com/Buuidsx5oV
— Gerald Bourguet (@GeraldBourguet) March 15, 2025
In the month of February, Dunn averaged just 1.9 points and 2.3 rebounds while shooting 29% from the field across 12 games. Although he recorded only one DNP during the month, his minutes took a noticeable hit, dropping from 21.2 per game in January to just 10.9 in February.
For a rookie like Dunn, it’s difficult to go from being considered the steal of the draft to barely seeing the floor and wondering why. His offensive struggles and lack of scoring have limited his playing time. However, on Friday night against the Sacramento Kings, he delivered an impressive performance with 16 points, five rebounds, and four steals. He was the heartbeat of the Suns’ defense and played a key role in their success in the first and third quarters.
If Dunn can continue to impact the game defensively while finding ways to contribute offensively, he may force his way back into the rotation. His energy and hustle are undeniable. Now it’s about proving he belongs on the floor every night.
Kevin Durant and Ryan Dunn pic.twitter.com/dHlf8lafhw
— CantGuardBook (@CGBBURNER) March 15, 2025
With the support of his biggest fan, Kevin Durant, Dunn has every reason to stay confident and keep shooting, even if he misses five in a row. That’s the kind of player Suns fans want to see: someone who isn’t afraid of making mistakes. The moment he starts playing to avoid being pulled, his confidence will take a hit, and it will show on both ends of the floor.
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