Bickley: Deandre Ayton's Departure Fueling Fresh Start for Suns' Stars

The Phoenix Suns traded Deandre Ayton, acknowledging his lack of professionalism, as they pursue an NBA championship.

The Phoenix Suns made a significant roster move on Wednesday, solidifying their championship aspirations by trading Deandre Ayton, a prominent player, for multiple talented players. This decision marks the end of Ayton's time with the Suns, relieving the team of the challenges and concerns associated with him.

Although Ayton possesses many admirable qualities, such as being lovable, funny, and stylish, his lack of seriousness as a professional athlete has been a pressing issue. While he talks a good game, he often falls short of expectations, particularly in crucial postseason moments. This flaw is detrimental to the team's pursuit of the elusive NBA championship.

Former Suns head coach Monty Williams famously criticized Ayton for quitting on the team during the 2021 NBA Finals. While this criticism may have seemed harsh, Ayton's performance against Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets in that series was undeniable evidence that he lacks the desire and determination that players like Devin Booker and Kevin Durant possess.

The Suns may face defensive challenges in the future without Ayton's contributions on good nights when he was engaged and active on the court. However, the team deserves credit for acquiring a group of intriguing players in the trade, showcasing their ability to facilitate deals while addressing their needs.

There may be some regrets surrounding the decision to draft Ayton, as it occurred during a tumultuous time in the franchise's history. Former owner Robert Sarver's overseas scouting trip with current general manager James Jones, leaving the then-GM Ryan McDonough uncertain about his job security, added to the complexity of the situation.

Certain Suns fans may argue that Ayton deserved another chance to prove his growth and potential under new head coach Frank Vogel. They point to his performance for Team Bahamas during the summer as evidence of his progress. However, it is crucial to remember that team leaders no longer trust Ayton, making it difficult to justify continued support for him.

Ultimately, trading Ayton was the right move for the Suns at this time. Their primary focus is on winning the NBA championship and the absence of a championship banner in the Footprint Center. A fresh start was necessary not only for Ayton but also for the benefit of players like Booker, Durant, and the entire Suns community.

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