Phoenix Suns star Devin Booker didn't hesitate to predict this season's Rookie of the Year, giving it to his new teammate Deandre Ayton after another explosive preseason outing.

Ayton, the top overall selection in this year's NBA Draft put up 21 points, 15 rebounds, three assists, and blocked three shots through 34 minutes in a narrow 91-86 win over the New Zealand Breakers.

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The Suns played without their best player, as Booker is still nursing an injury on his shooting hand, but Ayton put in the work with an efficient 9-of-13 from the floor and 3-of-4 from the foul line, leading the way for Phoenix.

Ayton has proved more than a physical force to be reckoned with, carving out space in the post; but also shown the skillset for the pick-and-pop game with a sweet mid-range jumper that could make him a nightmare for years to come.

While this rookie class will pose some threats for this ROY award with Luka Doncic, Marvin Bagley and Trae Young, among others — Ayton could secure the award by posting strong double-double numbers and helping this Suns team take a major leap in the win column, after winning a mere 21 games last season with the NBA's worst record.