How much has the Suns’ Deandre Ayton regressed?

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - MAY 07: Deandre Ayton #22 of the Phoenix Suns during Game Four of the NBA Western Conference Semifinals at Footprint Center on May 07, 2023 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Suns defeated the Nuggets 129-124. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
PHOENIX, ARIZONA - MAY 07: Deandre Ayton #22 of the Phoenix Suns during Game Four of the NBA Western Conference Semifinals at Footprint Center on May 07, 2023 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Suns defeated the Nuggets 129-124. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
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SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH – MARCH 27: Deandre Ayton of the Phoenix Suns shoots over Walker Kessler of the Utah Jazz. (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images)
SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH – MARCH 27: Deandre Ayton of the Phoenix Suns shoots over Walker Kessler of the Utah Jazz. (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images)

What This Means for the Suns and Ayton’s Future

Ayton’s regression, particularly on the defensive end, poses a significant challenge for the Suns. His lacklustre performance has even led to trade rumors, with not a lot of other teams clamoring to pay him $30 million a season for the next three years at this point.

If Ayton doesn’t turn things around, the Suns might have to consider moving on from him, especially with the team’s championship aspirations. For Ayton, this season could be a make-or-break year to prove that he can still be the player everyone thought he would be.

The Suns have a lot to ponder, especially when it comes to Ayton’s role in their future. Whether it’s a change in coaching strategy or a potential trade, something needs to give. The clock is ticking, not just for the Suns but for Deandre Ayton’s career as well.