Collin Gillespie, Following in Jalen Johnson’s Footsteps
In a season that has cemented Jalen Johnson as indispensable, Collin Gillespie has emerged as the new go-to player for points, stability, and Dunkest upside
As we approach the midpoint of the NBA season, early assessments can already be made. Some certainties have already crumbled: Domantas Sabonis, once the model of consistency, is playing fewer games than ever; LeBron James appears to be slowing down; and Trae Young – statistically – seems to have regressed to his rookie-level production.
Every season also produces unexpected standouts. This year, Jalen Johnson has become irreplaceable, but the 2025/26 season seems to have already introduced a natural successor: Collin Gillespie.
From Role Player to Suns Key Contributor
At the start of 2025/26, placing Collin Gillespie among the most influential Phoenix Suns players would have raised eyebrows. Yet, months later, the reality tells a different story: a player experiencing a breakout season, becoming a critical on-court factor for a team currently enjoying a winning record in the Western Conference.
Opportunity arose out of necessity. Phoenix has endured a turbulent stretch with lineup adjustments, injuries, and a constant search for offensive balance. In this environment, Gillespie has delivered whenever called upon, demonstrating game management, perimeter scoring threat, and the poise to take responsibility in clutch moments.
Statistically, he averages 14 points, 5.1 assists, and 4 rebounds, shooting nearly 43% from three, consistent with last season, while increasing his three-point attempts from 2.7 to 7.1 per game. Focusing only on games started, his averages rise to 17 points, 5.5 assists, and 4.1 rebounds, hitting 8 threes per game at 44%, with nearly 2 steals per contest – numbers close to an All-Star caliber player.
What makes Gillespie particularly valuable isn’t just statistics: Phoenix plays better with him on the floor. He doesn’t force plays, slow the pace, or hide; he’s a classic floor-general, possessing above-average basketball IQ and mental toughness, particularly in high-pressure moments.
A Consistent Dunkest Asset
On Dunkest, Gillespie’s value is even bigger. Initially priced at just 5 credits, he’s more than doubled to 10.7, making him a rare pick capable of delivering consistent points while rarely letting down fantasy squads.
Among players with the highest overall value gain, Gillespie ranks third (+5.7) behind Ryan Rollins (+6.3) – boosted by a strong start and his last game versus Charlotte (+0.9) – and Jalen Johnson (+5.8), who is likely to see some regression with Young and Porzingis returning and his high price.
Unlike others, Gillespie stands out for reliability: he’s had the fewest negative performances – just 4 in 28 Dunkest days – and when negative, his impact was minimal (-0.7 total) compared to Rollins (-1.2) and Johnson (-1).
Is the Most Improved Player Within Reach?
The big question: can Collin Gillespie win MIP? Realistically, the award tends to favor young stars with breakout seasons, heavy statistical jumps, and established media presence.
By these standards, he’s behind: his overall numbers aren’t yet All-Star level, and the Phoenix market, though relevant, doesn’t automatically spotlight him. Bookmakers currently favor Deni Avdija, Jalen Johnson, Keyonte George, Jalen Duren, and Josh Giddey, all more recognized than the Villanova product.
Yet Gillespie perfectly embodies the MIP narrative: evolving from a functional player to a key contributor. The last three winners followed similar paths: Dyson Daniels (2024/25) with the trade to the Atlanta Hawks, Tyrese Maxey (2023/24) post-Harden trade, and Lauri Markkanen (2022/23) in his first year with the Utah Jazz.
If the numbers aren’t fully there yet, Gillespie’s continued starting role and the rest of the season could tell a story still unfolding. One thing is certain: he deserves to be in the conversation – a player respected by insiders even if the broader public has yet to notice.