Introducing the NBA’s All-Underrated-Under 25 team

Deandre Ayton

This one may seem the most far fetched, but honestly: has Deandre Ayton received the typical amount of hype or media presence that comes with being a first overall pick?

Think Andrew Wiggins Ben Simmons, or most recently Zion Williamson. No matter how you turn out in the league, your reputation as the then-best player in the draft class will follow. Even as a member of the lowly Phoenix Suns, who haven’t seen the playoffs since 2010.

And despite a 25-game suspension due to violating the terms of the NBA’s drug program, Ayton has put together a strong sophomore campaign. He’s averaging 19 points, 12 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks per game in his 30 appearances for the Suns this season.

Of all players 25 and under, only eight players posted 15 or more points and 10 or more rebounds this season per Basketball Reference. On that list with Ayton? Guys like reigning-MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, Joel Embiid, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Bam Adebayo.

Ayton is a former first overall pick, justifiably. When thinking of Devin Booker down in Phoenix, remember the help he’s got in his walking double-double of a big man.