Wizards’ Deandre Ayton isn’t getting enough credit for his strong start

Ethan Kinney argues that Washington Wizards center Deandre Ayton is not getting enough credit for his impactful start to the season. Operating as a reserve behind Anthony Davis and Alex Sarr, Ayton is averaging 5.4 points and 4.6 rebounds in 14.3 minutes per game. Kinney highlights that Ayton's scaled per-36-minute stats of 12.4 points and 10.4 rebounds reflect quality production despite his reduced playing time.

Kinney considers the offseason trade that brought Ayton to Washington for Jaden Hardy and two second-round picks a clear success. With frontcourt injuries already impacting the roster, such as Sarr missing time with knee soreness and Tristan Vukcevic sidelined by a hip issue, Kinney believes Ayton provides essential depth and insurance for the Wizards.