Deandre Ayton seems to be on the verge of reaching a contract buyout expected with the Portland Trail Blazers. This was done in order to allow him to become a free agent. This new development is a monumental shift for the former No. It’s been a tough go for him with the Trail Blazers since being traded to Blazer country from the Phoenix Suns two seasons ago.
Ayton’s choice to seek a buyout is understandable given he’s on the cusp of his 27th birthday, coming up next month. The 6-foot-10, 265-pounder last season averaged 14.4 points per game. He snatched 10.2 rebounds a night, proving to be a dominant force on both sides of the court. He set a career-high mark by shooting 56.6% from the field. This gives great credence to his perception as a consistent point producer and board grabber.
Though these numbers are impressive, Ayton’s tenure in Portland has been filled with inconsistent play. In those two seasons, he has played just 95 of the 164 games he could’ve. Just last season he appeared in 40 games for the Trail Blazers. His contract had $35.6 million remaining on it and was set to expire next summer. That set the stage for serious conversation about a buyout, as both parties looked to head in different directions.
Ayton’s journey in the NBA is noteworthy. He was a key part of leading the Phoenix Suns to their first NBA Finals in 2021 since 1993. He has the distinction of being the first player since Dwight Howard to do something amazing. Over his first seven seasons in the NBA, he averaged a double-double (at least 10 points, 10 rebounds) every year.
In this case, it was Ayton’s impending buyout — and subsequent free agency. Though his salary is more than $14.1 million, he is eligible for signing with any team in the league, including those that are salary cap aprons. That flexibility gives Ayton a major opportunity. Instead, he can choose a franchise that appreciates him and what he brings to the table and is willing to make him more central to the future.
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