The Suns Can't Have Nice Things

Deandre Ayton was suspended 25 games for violating the NBA's anti-drug policy.

The Phoenix Suns haven't made the playoffs since 2010, and that streak is certainly going to continue this season.

But on Wednesday night against the Sacramento Kings, a 29-point thrashing, the Suns became something they haven't been in a long time — they resembled an NBA-caliber team.

In the NBA, that is quite literally the lowest bar that can be set, and they rose above it. Phoenix seemed like they had the pieces to avoid a last-place Western Conference finish for the fourth year in a row.

At its best, the all-around blowout of the Kings was an amuse bouche for what would be the construction phase of the rebuild.

It had been 24 hours, though. Too long. The lesson should have been obvious from the beginning: the Suns can't have nice things.

This theme resurfaced Thursday, as second-year center Deandre Ayton was suspended 25 games for violating the league's anti-drug policy after testing positive for a banned diuretic. Ayton is going through an expedited arbitration process to reduce his suspension. Either way, the outcome is a devastating blow to Phoenix's competitiveness.

Ayton finished Wednesday with 18 points and 11 boards — around last year's averages — but what was most encouraging was his defense. In his rookie season, Ayton often looked flat-footed and lost on the court. In the season opener, he appeared stronger and more reflexive. Dewayne Dedmon and Richaun Holmes combined for just four points and 11 rebounds. Ayton's timing affected the outcome on a number of straight-line drives.

Now, finding consistency on that end will be put on hold until Ayton returns from suspension. In the 7-footer's place will be Aron Baynes, who will offer above-average defense, but can't come close to replicating Ayton's offensive production.

Ayton's absence is also dispiriting for how he was jelling with Ricky Rubio and Devin Booker. Rubio, who signed a 3-year/$51m deal in the offseason, was inspiring on defense, and a relief on offense. The Suns were trotting out lucky contest winners to be their point guard last year. In the season opener, Rubio's veteran play style took pressure off Booker and set up Ayton for easy shots.

Of course, nothing is guaranteed and the Suns may win at a nice clip. Even without Ayton, it's a better team than last year. But the sophomore is still answering if he was worthy of being picked over Marvin Bagley, Luka Doncic, Trae Young, or Jaren Jackson Jr.

The Suns' record may not have been good indicator to make that judgment. It is also true that Ayton can't do anything to help his case for almost a third of the season. His suspension inhibits the growth of a Phoenix team not just rebuilding, but doing so with a direction in mind.

Once again, it's not a result of how the Suns fare against their counterparts. They just can't get out of their own way.