Devin Booker Slips in Latest Player Rankings as New Talent Rises

September 24, 2026 - 22:09

Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker has found himself in an unfamiliar position in ESPN's newest player rankings. The longtime face of the franchise has taken a step back in the annual list, a shift that reflects both the rise of younger talent across the league and the changing perception of his standing among the game's best.

Booker has remained a steady force for Phoenix, delivering the kind of scoring and playmaking that has defined his career. He continues to carry a heavy load on offense and remains one of the most reliable shot creators in the Western Conference. Even so, the emergence of several rising stars has pushed him down the board, with voters seemingly favoring players who have either led deep playoff runs or posted breakout seasons.

The drop raises questions about how Booker is viewed heading into the next campaign. At his best, he is a proven scorer who can take over games and perform on the biggest stages. But team results and postseason success often shape these rankings, and Phoenix has yet to reach the mountaintop with him as the centerpiece.

For Booker, the response will not come through words. It will come through production, health, and whether he can guide the Suns back into serious contention. If he does, the next round of rankings could look very different.