Phoenix Suns: 3 big questions heading into 2019-20

2. Is Deandre Ayton ready to make the jump?

When the Phoenix Suns selected Deandre Ayton first overall in the 2018 NBA draft, the hope was he would serve as a compliment to the young core centered around Devin Booker.

It’s fair to say Ayton played to that level in his first year in the league.

Ayton averaged 16.3 points and 10.3 rebounds per game and finished among the league leaders in double-doubles last season. So why wasn’t his name mentioned in the Rookie of the Year voting?

That’s because Ayton doesn’t fall into the modern generation of stars, according to NBA fans. These people look for players like Trae Young, who can shoot deep 3s, or Luka Doncic, who dazzled with game-winning shots.

But that isn’t part of Ayton’s game, nor does he try to play like someone else.

Instead, Ayton kept his head down and played just like a first overall pick should. He was consistent and extremely efficient, both of which are the attributes of a young superstar.

Now heading into his second season with the Suns, it can be speculated Ayton is ready to jump to the top tier of centers in the NBA.

An example of a similar career progression would be former number one pick, Karl-Anthony Towns and the season that followed his rookie season. He raised both his scoring and rebounding numbers during his sophomore season and by year three became an All-Star.

Should he make that leap, Ayton and Booker could become the next dynamic duo in a league dominated by the rising trend. That could also take some of the stress of Booker, who has led a one-man show during his four years with the Suns.

While Ayton may not average 25 points a game during his career, putting up a 20-10 stat line over the next couple season could turn him in an all-star caliber player.