While he serves his 25-game suspension, Phoenix Suns center Deandre Ayton can practice with the team. There's a catch, however, as Ayton must leave the arena two hours prior to the game.

Ayton has received a 25-game suspension for violating the NBA/NBPA Anti-Drug Program by testing positive for a diuretic.

The Suns began the 2019-20 season with a convincing win over the Sacramento Kings at home. Ayton, the No. 1 overall pick in last year’s draft, put up 18 points and 11 rebounds in 33 minutes while shooting an efficient 9-of-14 from the field.

Article Continues Below
More Phoenix Suns News
May 14, 2025; Chicago, Il, USA; Jase Richardson talks to the media during the 2025 NBA Draft Combine at Marriott Marquis Chicago.
Orlando Magic’s Jase Richardson headlines 5 biggest steals of 2025 NBA Draft Round 1Rishav Bhat ·
Phoenix Suns general manager Brian Gregory during an introductory press conference at the Verizon 5g Performance Center.
Suns trade up to No. 31 with Timberwolves draft dealAlex House ·
Charlotte Hornets center Mark Williams (5) reacts to an official’s call during the second half against the Chicago Bulls at Spectrum Center.
Mark Williams trade grade for Hornets, Suns dealJerry Donatien ·
Phoenix Suns head coach Jordan Ott (left) poses for a photo with general manager Brian Gregory during an introductory press conference at the Verizon 5G Performance Center. Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Suns acquire 36th pick in draft trade with NetsScotty White ·
Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (35) drives with the ball as Houston Rockets forward Dillon Brooks (9) defends during the fourth quarter at Toyota Center.
Bill Simmons rips Phoenix’s draft decisions after Kevin Durant tradeJake Faigus ·
Former Rockets star and current Suns player Dillon Brooks, who filed a restraining order against his ex, Heather Andrews.
Dillon Brooks files restraining order against ex who’s mother of his 2 kidsAndrew Korpan ·

In his first season in the NBA, Ayton averaged 16.3 points and 10.3 rebounds in 71 games while shooting 58.5 percent from the floor.

People sometimes forget he was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2018 draft. Ayton was overshadowed by Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic and Atlanta Hawks point guard Trae Young last season despite averaging a double-double.

This suspension isn't a good look for Ayton. Hopefully, the Suns' youngster learns from his mistake and comes back hungrier than ever.

The offensive burden will be heavy for Suns star shooting guard Devin Booker in the 25 games that Ayton misses. The other players on Phoenix will have to step up if they want to survive this Ayton-less 25-game stretch.