Credit: AFP – Scanpix
The Phoenix Suns’ reluctance to offer a maximum rookie contract extension to former No. 1 overall pick Deandre Ayton has stalled discussions on a deal, via Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN.
Per the report, Ayton has no intention of accepting a deal less than the comparable max contracts that several of his 2018 NBA Draft classmates signed, including Trae Young, Luka Doncic, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Michael Porter Jr.
Without a deal, Ayton could become a restricted free agent next summer.
The 23-year-old was a key part of the Suns’ run to the 2021 NBA Finals. Ayton averaged 14.4 points, 10.5 rebounds, 1.4 assists, and 1.2 blocks a game in his third NBA season in 2020-21.
Over the summer, the Phoenix Suns signed veteran Chris Paul to an extension.
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