Chris Paul is widely credited for being an integral piece in the Phoenix Suns' memorable NBA Finals run last season. Many believe that it was his leadership that turned this team around. As it turns out, CP3's influence on the Suns also involved an early-season squabble with teammate Deandre Ayton.
According to Paul himself, he shared a few heated moments with the Suns big man early on:
“Me and Deandre Ayton was getting into it like hell to start the season,” Paul admitted, via Dana Scott of azcentral. “Because I’m hard on him and I ain’t no loser …
“My thing is you’ll find a way and that’s the hardest part for me because I always say this: Show me somebody that’s OK with losing and I’ll show you a loser. Like, for real, for real. I ain’t never gonna be cool with losing. Ever.”
This isn't surprising at all considering Chris Paul's reputation. He embodies the term “floor general” and is never afraid to call out any of his Suns teammates when necessary. What cannot be denied, however, is that CP3's intentions are always for the betterment of the team. It's never personal and we're sure Deandre Ayton was able to figure this out sooner or later.
In the end, all the behind-the-scenes drama between Paul and Ayton paid off big time. Ayton emerged as one of the top big men in the NBA last season and the Suns were just two wins away from an NBA title.
At this point, we are certain that Chris Paul, Deandre Ayton, and the rest of the Suns are not resting on their laurels. The mission is far from done, and they will be doing everything in their power to get another shot at a chip this coming season.
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