You’ve seen it. I’ve seen it. The opposition had definitely seen it. Deandre Ayton’s level of play over the past 11 games for the Phoenix Suns has been precisely what the team, and he, has needed.
Prior to the commencement of the 2021-22 season, the Phoenix Suns and GM James Jones decided not to offer Deandre Ayton a max contract deal. While both sides have compelling arguments, the fact is that Ayton has been on a “earn it” journey this season. The ball had been placed in DA’s court, literally and figuratively.
With the playoffs on the horizon, the inconsistency we have seen from Ayton throughout the season wasn’t necessarily a concern, but it was a topic of discussion.