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Phoenix Suns need Deandre Ayton to prove his worth without Devin Booker
Phoenix’s domination within the painted area fueled their winning efforts against Golden State the other night, as Ayton led his team in points and field goal attempts. The former Wildcat also led both teams with two blocks and 20 points specifically in the paint.
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But Ayton’s excellence extends far beyond Tuesday night. Since Phoenix’s game against the Spurs, he finds himself averaging 17.0 points per game while shooting 64.1 percent from the field. All those numbers exceed his regular season averages.
Ayton’s engagement both schematically and assertively will remain invaluable now, and even after Booker returns.
He just keeps growing with his decision making on the roll, with his touches, and defense around the rim. Ayton even seems to be fostering an ability to pass from within the post, making an already top five half court offense even more dynamic.