What happened: Saddiq Bey started 64 games last season and averaged 18.9 points while shooting 45.8% from the field and 37.7% from 3. As the closest defender, he held opponents to 47% shooting, ranking eighth among players who defended at least 550 shots, per GeniusIQ tracking.
Why it matters: That two-way production adds detail to why Bey agreed to a three-year, $55.5 million extension this week. Efficient spot-up scoring and credible primary matchup defense give him a stable case for major minutes heading into 2026-27.
By the numbers: Across 64 starts, Bey produced roughly 1,210 points at his 18.9-per-game rate. His 37.7% mark from 3 came alongside a top-10 closest-defender finish, ranking eighth on 550 shots defended.
What to watch: Watch whether that scoring volume and defensive workload carry into training camp and the opening rotation for 2026-27. If those numbers hold, the year-one extension value case should look straightforward.