Deandre Ayton explains how ‘sleeping on air mattress’ contributed to early season struggles

Ayton can become a star in Portland if he remains consistent.

Deandre Ayton explains how ‘sleeping on air mattress’ contributed to early season struggles

Deandre Ayton

Deandre Ayton has been quite off ever since he departed from Phoenix. The seven-footer has had a rough time adjusting in Portland. Ayton is a useful asset and an elite center but hasn’t been up to his potential so far. Playing for the Blazers, Ayton hasn’t been at his best although recently, his numbers have taken an unexpected spike.

In the last five games, Ayton has been averaging 26.8 points and 15 rebounds, while shooting over 63% from the field. If Ayton does continue to play the same, the Blazers will clearly benefit, but they’ll have to add some new assets to the team. Earlier this season, he was struggling to get back on the court, as the 25-year-old couldn’t find his rhythm. One of the reasons for the same, as stated by Ayton, was his mattress.

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Deandre Ayton said on the Blazer Focused Podcast:

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My body wasn’t just my body. People forget the humane difference of me adjusting to everything. That included something as routine as getting proper sleep. Just being comfortable in waking up. I didn’t have a bed for quite some time. I was on an air mattress. Just trying to figure this out.
Deandre Ayton said

During his time in Phoenix, Ayton had quite a few veterans to learn from. Whereas in Portland, he’ll need to adapt to a much different role. Stars like Chris Paul, Kevin Durant, and Devin Booker pushed Ayton to play his desired role. With a trip to the Finals and three postseason appearances, Ayton has enough experience to become a more responsible player.

Deandre Ayton has a bright future in Portland

With Ayton’s recent performance, he can become a star if he is consistent. The Blazers have a young core and can build a team around some of their best players including Anfernee Simons, Jeremi Grant, and Ayton. Being active in the offseason and bringing in useful assets as well as veterans can make a much bigger impact on the team.

Ayton on the other hand has a chance to shine brighter. While he will continue to give his 100%, players around him can use him to the team’s advantage. Deandre Ayton is a tough scorer and rim protector. Being an unstoppable force on both ends of the floor, the Blazer has some serious potential to unlock.

It will be interesting to see how things play out for Portland this offseason. The Blazers are projected to land a top-five pick in the 2024 NBA draft. Adding yet another top pick will be great for the franchise if they look for the long term. Prospects like Nikola Topic or Matas Buzelis can be useful assets to the team.

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