The last 15 months of operations for the Phoenix Suns have led to varying changes in perception from around the NBA.

This reflects in the yearly NBA general manager survey. Phoenix is only mentioned twice across 48 distinct questions, with head coach Jordan Ott receiving votes for having the best offensive and defensive systems in the league.

There are numerous ways that the Suns can buck this under-the-radar entrance into the season - both in regards to individual players and how the team operates over the next 82 games.

Booker isn't even in the realm of thought here for the first time in years. The four players receiving votes for the "best shooting guard" are Anthony Edwards, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Luka Dončić, and Donovan Mitchell.

Part of this is due to the reshaping of how positional basketball is viewed. The other half of the equation is Booker simply becoming something of an afterthought when it comes to conversations around the elite.

This is a major opportunity for the 12-year-vet to make a statement. He has a path to returning to a more natural role in 2026-27, while continuing to grow as a playmaker. He will also likely represent the city of Phoenix in the All-Star game come February. 

An uptick in efficiency, more improvement as a playmaker, and taking Phoenix to another playoff berth might re-assert his status as one of the elites this time next year.

This wasn't a topic that was addressed in the GM survey. However, Gillespie seems to be an afterthought in this conversation as well. 

Dylan Harper (San Antonio Spurs) and Payton Pritchard (Boston Celtics) are leading this conversation. While they might have more backing heading into the year, Gillespie fits the profile as a legitimate contender himself.

The Villanova product is an exceptional shooter, organizes the offense in an efficient manner, and generates steals via nifty off-ball play. 

An uptick in volume (and qualifying for the award) position the 28-year-old to become a finalist for the honor.

The Suns don't seem to be on the radar to avoid the play-in this season. The Denver Nuggets (4), Houston Rockets (5), Los Angeles Lakers (6), and Portland Trail Blazers (7) all slot in front of Phoenix. 

Despite this, the Suns are potentially setting the stage to have the most stable floor out of the competitors here. The Lakers are carrying hefty injury concerns and critiques of how management went about handling the offseason. Denver lost a significant amount of production from a year ago. The Rockets are still facing questions themselves, particularly when it comes to coaching and internal development.

There's a real shot for the Suns to avoid the play-in if a few factors come into fold for the team. This includes a leap from Khaman Maluach, the integration of Miles Bridges into the starting lineup going smoothy, and Booker returning to prior heights.