Wed Feb 05 03:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Ayton’s Dominant Performance Fuels Blazers’ Victory Over Suns

**Portland, OR –** Deandre Ayton delivered a stellar performance against his former team, the Phoenix Suns, leading the Portland Trail Blazers to a decisive 127-108 victory on Saturday. Ayton, who was traded by the Suns before the 2023-24 season, scored 24 points on an impressive 11-of-12 shooting, adding seven rebounds. Despite his dominant showing, Ayton downplayed the “revenge game” narrative, stating he didn’t focus on the significance of the matchup.

The Blazers’ inside dominance was evident, outscoring the Suns 66-32 in the paint. This performance highlighted the contrast between Ayton’s current success and the Suns’ decision to trade him, a move that also sent center Jusuf Nurkic to Phoenix. Nurkic, however, remains out of the Suns’ rotation.

Ayton’s recent performances have been a significant factor in the Blazers’ seven wins in their last eight games. In his four games played during this stretch (missing three due to a knee injury), he averaged 22.3 points, 11 rebounds, and a remarkable 71.9% field goal percentage. His improved intensity, engagement, and vocal leadership have been noted by both teammates and coach Chauncey Billups.

Teammate Scoot Henderson praised Ayton’s skills and speed, highlighting his impact on the team’s overall performance. Billups echoed these sentiments, emphasizing Ayton’s improved defensive play and leadership. Ayton himself attributed his recent success to the growth and energy of his younger teammates, suggesting that his performance is directly tied to the team’s overall cohesiveness and focus. This recent surge marks arguably Ayton’s most impressive four-game stretch with the Blazers, coming during a time when the team is largely healthy.

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