NBA Draft 2012: Phoenix Suns Select Kendall Marshall with the 13th Pick

The Phoenix Suns have drafted Kendall Marshall with the 2012 NBA draft's 13th pick to be the eventual successor to Steve Nash. Marshall was widely considered to be the best passer in the 2012 draft class and is one of the better passers I've seen in the draft in several years.

Marshall is the kind of pass-first point guard the Suns have had for the last eight seasons in Nash and should get a lot of minutes in his rookie season. The nice thing about selecting Marshall is the Suns won't have to drastically change the offense to fit a different point guard.

While he is a superb passer, he does present some issues for the Suns. Namely his defensive ability and outside shooting touch need work. I don't worry about his shot getting better since Phoenix will work hard to improve his shot, but his defense will need to improvement.

Phoenix needs to install a defensive mentality in Marshall from the get-go to ensure the team's defense does not take a hit. Specifically, foot quickness needs to be addressed and worked on so straight-line drives don't plague the team.

Interestingly, signing Steve Nash should be an even bigger key than it was before, as it would allow Marshall to learn under one of the best point guards of all time. Look for Nash to get a two-year deal if he does re-sign in Phoenix.

The Suns on paper could have a bit of a jam at point guard with the potential to have Sebastian Telfair, Aaron Brooks, Steve Nash and now Marshall. Most likely two of these players will not be on the team come the start of the season. My money is on Telfair and Brooks not being on the team next year.