For many of his NBA profession, Deandre Ayton hasn’t lived as much as expectations.
The No. 1 total decide within the 2018 NBA Draft has proven glimpses of nice protection, however he hasn’t been prepared or in a position to maintain that for lengthy stretches.
He additionally hasn’t stepped up on offense, and it’s already turn out to be evident that he’s not the franchise participant groups thought he could be.
Notably, loads of that has to do together with his demeanor.
He acquired on Monty Williams’ unhealthy aspect when he was with the Phoenix Suns, and it now looks as if the identical is going on to him with the Portland Path Blazers.
Following a loss to the Utah Jazz, Path Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups stated he benched Ayton within the second half due to his perspective.
“I didn’t like his spirit in the game,” Billups stated, by way of Sean Highkin of Rip Metropolis Radio 620.
Chauncey Billups on why Deandre Ayton solely performed the primary two minutes of the second half: “I didn’t like his spirit in the game.”
— Sean Highkin (@highkin) December 7, 2024
Reality be instructed, that’s legitimate, given Ayton’s historical past.
He’s making some huge cash, and has loads of expertise, so watching him undergo the motions may infuriate any coach.
Additionally, Billups was there within the trenches as a former participant himself, so he is aware of when somebody isn’t giving his all.
Portland added its massive man of the long run, Donovan Clingan, within the 2024 NBA Draft.
When wholesome, Robert Williams III additionally provides them a robust defensive punch.
Which may make it troublesome for Ayton to seek out his manner on the ground if he doesn’t begin pushing himself and proving that he desires to be on the market.
The publish NBA Coach Benched Participant On Friday For Not Liking His Spirit appeared first on The Chilly Wire.
