Although he doesn’t get the same attention as Devin Booker, Deandre Ayton has played a key role in the Phoenix Suns’ impressive streak during the playoffs. He started things off with an outstanding performance against the Los Angeles Lakers, putting good numbers in the first round.
He kept things that way, going against Nikola Jokic in the second round and dominating the Clippers’ big men in the Western Conference Finals. Ayton made a dramatic game-winning shot to give the Phoenix Suns the second win in the WCF after an excellent pass from Jae Crowder.
Ayton praised his teammate, crediting his pass as the real game-winner for the Suns.
“That’s definitely Jae’s game-winner, making a great pass to a 7-footer,” Ayton said. “Other than that, coach drew up a great play where I was in the best position where my coaches trust me and my teammates trust me. Book set a great screen. I gather my feet and go for the ball. The rest is just off my athleticism and talent.”
“That’s definitely Jae’s game-winner.”
Deandre Ayton after Phoenix’s Game 2 win. https://t.co/iVtrs7AGUM
— NBA TV (@NBATV) June 23, 2021
It was a great play that came after Paul George missed two clutch free throws for the Clippers. Things are falling into place for the Suns this series, and they hope to continue their good streak in Game 3. Deandre has become a vocal leader for the team, constantly pushing and celebrating them.
Ayton demonstrates he belongs to the elite of the league, just like Booker, leading this team to go up 2-0 in the WCF even without Chris Paul on the court.
