Deandre Ayton needs a fresh start, and the Portland Trail Blazers hope to be fertile land for the former overall No. 1 pick who was part of the massive trade involving Damian Lillard.
It’s almost like he’s an afterthought, a footnote in a larger story surrounding Lillard’s loyalty and desire to go to Miami being ignored, paving the way for Milwaukee and Phoenix to emerge and find a way to consummate this deal somewhat quietly before training camp begins next week.
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Usually when players averaging 18 points and 10 rebounds on a close-to-max deal get moved from a contender, it’s big happenings.