“Small Market Suns”: Fans Lose Their Cool as Phoenix on the Verge of Losing Deandre Ayton
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USA Today via Reuters
Jun 20, 2021; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns center Deandre Ayton (right) controls the ball against Los Angeles Clippers forward Nicolas Batum in the first half during game one of the Western Conference Finals for the 2021 NBA Playoffs at Phoenix Suns Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
After their 2020-21 season fell to a disheartening end, the Phoenix Suns would’ve been determined to comeback. In spite of possessing quality stars like Devin Booker and Chris Paul, the side fell short against the Bucks. Giannis Antetokounmpo and co. proved to be their chink in their armor, claiming the series 4-2 last year. Another key man for Phoenix, was 23-year-old Deandre Ayton. After a successful season, the youngster is unfortunately likely to be on his way out.
In the 2020-21 season, Ayton averaged close to 15 points and over 10 rebounds. He was the starting center for the Suns, and showcased his ability multiple times. A vital cog in the defensive end and more than potent offensively, Ayton was perhaps the next big thing that Monty Williams could’ve groomed. However as per latest reports, this was not meant to be, as the renewal deal has collapsed.
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Suns fans furious as Deandre Ayton likely to leave Phoenix
As talks had progressed between the franchise and Ayton, they were preparing a rookie extension deal. Unfortunately, owner Robert Sarver was unable to meet some demands, meaning that the talks have potentially ended. As reported by Adrian Wojnarowski via ESPN sources, “Suns talks with Deandre Ayton on rookie extension have ended – without a deal. Ayton expected max contract and owner Robert Sarver hasn’t offered it. More coming on consequences for failing to reach deal with 2018 No.1 overall pick.”
ESPN Sources: Suns talks with Deandre Ayton on rookie extension have ended — without a deal. Ayton expected max contract and owner Robert Sarver hasn’t offered it. More coming on consequences for failing to reach deal with 2018 No. 1 overall pick. NBA Today debut, ESPN2. Now.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) October 18, 2021
While many were in agreement with Sarver’s decision not to offer the maximum contract, a vast majority were left annoyed. They wished to see Ayton continuing with the setup for many more years to come. One fan went on to dismiss the decision, boldly calling the team “Small market Suns”. Meanwhile, one frustrated fan commented, “That’s insane, Suns don’t get to the finals without Ayton.” Have a look.
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Man just helped them to a finals and they are penny pinching. He’s not as good as the other maxed players in his class, but he’s just as important to his teams success. Small market Suns gonna regret this
— The Notorious N.U.G (@Notorious_Nuggs) October 18, 2021
Let’s say you don’t think DA is worth the max.
How much less is he worth? 4 to 6 million a year less?
And what does that buy you? A back of the rotation player who doesn’t sniff the floor during the playoffs?
I’d rather pay more for the dude who locked down AD and Jokic.
— Micah Rumsey (@MicahRumsey) October 18, 2021
This is a bad move for a lot of reasons. 1) Ayton is young and very good. 2) he compliments your 2 stars well. 3) your Phoenix and can’t attract better players in FA. 4) you can resign him, but I don’t think they have cap to sign someone as good due to cp3 and Booker contracts
— Jacob Lerum (@JdLerum) October 18, 2021
Ayton was literally babying Davis in the playoffs majority of Davis’s points came from other players guarding him and they’re not going to extend this man but they can extend Bridges 💀💀💀bring this man to the Nets we’ll treat him right Nets in 4 pic.twitter.com/ExjQhO6V4l
— Kevin Durant’s Burner ➐ (@KDTreeey5) October 18, 2021
that’s insane, Suns don’t get to the finals without Ayton.
— JLiv from Hampton 🦂 (@1999jalen) October 18, 2021
Wow! What a slap in the face of @DeandreAyton smh. Finish the season and leave those people because thats just foul with no damn free throws smh. https://t.co/KR4jhD5RRU
— Right or Wrong or Right (@KangKountry) October 18, 2021
they paid cp0 before ayton smh
— okayJAY¹¹ (@makenossense) October 18, 2021
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Bam got the max and they’re very similar players with similar stats.
— Chase Mills (@cuttotheChaseee) October 18, 2021
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If the Phoenix Suns lose out on Deandre Ayton, they will have to fill a huge void. Who do you think is the ideal replacement in the center position? And where do you see the powerhouse playing in the upcoming campaign? Have your say in the comments.
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