As the biggest name in restricted free agency, Deandre Ayton was always going to draw some level of interest from teams this summer. Despite an uncertain situation in Phoenix, the Pacers stepped up with an offer that was quickly matched by the Suns.
The move made Ayton’s long-term future a certainty, but he was never able to secure what he wanted financially.
Apparently, according to Ramona Shelburne, he blames team owner Robert Sarver for that.
ESPN Insider Says Deandre Ayton Believes It Was Robert Sarver’s Decision Not To Give Him The Max
During early negotiations, it was the Suns who pushed back on Ayton’s wishes, refusing to meet him anywhere close to his desired salary. Some, including Ayton himself, believe Sarver is the one who made that decision.
“My understanding, from talking to people close to Deandre [Ayton], is that he thinks this was Robert Sarver’s decision as well. And Robert Sarver’s about to not be the owner anymore. So, there is some healing that can happen there but I know there were some hurt feelings over that contract and how that played out. If they were going to instantly match an offer sheet that he signed, why not just give him the max contract? Why not? Yes, it saved them a year and $40 million but as somebody close to Deandre told me, there’s a karma to this. Why would you do that to your player? Your number one overall pick, this guy you drafted and developed, and then you put him through that. The message he’s hearing is ‘we don’t really believe in you.’ If he blames Robert Sarver for that and Sarver’s not there anymore then I think there’s an opportunity for healing. But he has to have some lingering resentment towards Monty Williams and that front office …”
Ramona Shelburne: "My understanding, from talking to people close to Deandre [Ayton], is that he thinks this was Robert Sarver's decision [to not give Ayton the max contract].#NBATwitter pic.twitter.com/ndudoi28S4
— 𝐓𝐚𝐥𝐤𝐢𝐧' 𝐍𝐁𝐀 (@_Talkin_NBA) September 28, 2022
While the Suns still have a solid roster on paper, there are some lingering problems that could derail their season. Chris Paul’s health is a big factor, and so is the development of Devin Booker — who may still have another level to his game.
Obviously, Deandre Ayton’s performance will be huge as well. As a big body who can score under the rim and protect the paint, he’s a key piece to what they do and one of their top statistical performers.
So far, he doesn’t look bought in, but we will see if that changes once Sarver sells the team. Either way, the Suns have a lot of issues to work out and the biggest one of all may be their relationship with Ayton.
