Phoenix Suns second-year center Deandre Ayton addressed his recent move to the bench under head coach Monty Williams.

In a recent interview with Duane Rankin of AZ Central, Ayton said that being a reserve in Phoenix was something new, unlike anything else that's happened in his career.

“New. New,” said Ayton when asked how it felt coming off the bench. “I’ve never been through this, but it’s new. I’m just holding my head high and just working.”

“Working for the team. Working to get better. Working to get some wins. Working to know my teammates better.”

Ayton was the 2018 first overall pick and is averaging 15.1 points, 11.5 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game for the Suns this season. He's only played in eight games this season due to the 25-game suspension he received near the beginning of the season for testing positive for a substance banned under the league's performance-enhancing drug policy. Ayton came in third last season in Rookie of the Year behind Luka Doncic and Tray Young, averaging he's 16.3 points, 10.3 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game.

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Williams' decision to bench Ayton was because of his inconsistency this season as the Suns look to make a push for the playoffs.

“For me, I’ve been through this before,” Williams said. “I understand the expectations. If you want to throw darts, throw them right here (at me). But we’re going to develop him and bring him along the right”

Meanwhile, the Suns are currently the 11th seed in the Western Conference with a record of 15-23. They're only two games behind the  Memphis Grizzlies who are at the eight seed. They can most certainly stage a run for the lower seeds in the playoffs if they continue to play consistently. They're seeking to extend their win streak as they host the Charlotte Hornets later today.