There was a lot of speculation suggesting that Deandre Ayton‘s days with the Phoenix Suns were numbered.
But, surprise surprise, that wasn’t the case.
After agreeing to a four-year, $133 million deal with the Indiana Pacers, the restricted free agent was drawn back to the Suns after they agreed to offer him the exact same amount.
That means that Ayton is back in Phoenix and he seems very excited about that.
PHOENIX! I grew up here, got drafted here, had my son here. We have the best fans in the world.
I’m ready to get back to work with my brothers. 🔒 pic.twitter.com/KlCSui0M6z
— Deandre Ayton (@DeandreAyton) July 19, 2022
Upon finishing the official paperwork, Ayton shouted out to the fans of the team and the city, saying, “PHOENIX! I grew up here, got drafted here, had my son here. We have the best fans in the world.”
He finished with, “I’m ready to get back to work with my brothers.”
There is definitely a lot of work ahead but no one should forget just how talented the Suns are.
Burning Bright
Most inside reports said that Ayton was unhappy with his role on the Suns and was excited to try his luck with the Pacers.
He was also jazzed to play with Tyrese Haliburton in Indiana.
But the Suns had other plans and they wanted to keep Ayton around as they attempt to return to the Finals.
Hopefully whatever animosity that existed will be handled and put away because the team really does have a great chance at going far – again – if they can work as a unit.
They certainly collapsed in the playoffs last season but they were the odds-on favorites to make it all the way to the Western Conference Finals.
With Ayton happy and on board, they’ll definitely have a leg up on most of the competition again.
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