Is DeAndre Ayton's Time in Portland Limited?

Is DeAndre Ayton's Time in Portland Limited?

In 2021, it seemed like DeAndre Ayton would be the future big man of the league. Being a key factor was why the Phoenix Suns would go to the NBA Finals. But since then, it has all gone downhill. Ayton forced his way out of Phoenix to end up with a fresh start. To prove to himself that he is the first pick and to show that he can thrive when given the chance. Yet he has not lived up to that. He averaged 16.7 points and 11 rebounds, a double-double. But dominAyton hasn't live up to the nickname he gave himself. He should be compared to Joel Embiid and Nikola Jokic with his size and athleticism. Ayton is not in that discussion. Now Portland has accepted their loss and is looking to make a trade for some assets.

The Portland Trail Blazers have a lot of centers. Last year, they traded for Robert Williams III. He is one of the backup centers. But he needs to be healthier to start. Along with drafting Donovan Clingan. Who will most likely get runs this season? As Portland looks to develop the young talent on the roster. Drafting Donovan indicates that Portland does not view DeAndre Ayton as their future. A player like that, entering his prime, should be the starting center. A former first-pick should be the franchise center without debate. The Trail Blazers seem willing to cut their losses. Portland sees the work ethic and is not impressed.

Ayton, at this point, is modern-day Hassan Whiteside. He is a player on the stat sheet who looks like a great role player, but watching his game, you see a lot of negatives. DeAndre has not improved his defense, which has been a question mark since 2018. His offense has stagnated, too. He has not shot well on threes, and his rim protection is lacking. His motor has hurt his credibility. It showed when Ayton was horrible against the Nuggets in 2023. DeAndre went from being one of the best prospects to one of the worst in 2024.

A lazy player who did not live up to his expectations. From ruining relationships with Devin Booker and Monty Williams. To now being on a team that doesn't have his future in mind, Portland looks to do a complete rebuild. They have a lot of noteworthy young players trying to build a culture. Along with veteran players like Jerami Grant, who will be in high demand. Ayton is no longer a future star of the league. Now, he's viewed as a player that could have been. As of right now, the market views Ayton as a player with no value. A player who does not hustle or add any value to the team. DeAndre Ayton's future in the organization seems dark. The new center and young core made it clear: Ayton doesn't fit their timeline.

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