Phoenix Suns big man Deandre Ayton and Dallas Mavericks stud Luka Doncic are arguably the top two contenders for this season's Rookie of the Year award. There appears to be a lot of mutual respect between these two highly touted rookies, with Ayton having nothing but good things to say about Doncic.

Ayton was quoted by Suns reporter Kevin Zimmerman on Twitter:

That's a whole lot of love coming from the first overall pick from this past June's draft.

Ayton started off by describing the type of relationship he currently has with Doncic. According to the 7-foot-1 Suns center, the fact that they share the same sports agency has allowed them to form a bond early on in their respective NBA careers. Ayton even added in a comical side note about how he has allegedly demolished Doncic in the game of ping-pong.

Ayton also acknowledged Doncic's achievements in Europe. The 19-year-old Slovenian was last season's EuroLeague and Liga ACB MVP winner. He led the way for Spanish outfit Real Madrid as they hoisted the ACB championship trophy for the third time in four years.

Doncic's experience at the professional level is considered by many as his primary advantage against Ayton, and any other rookie for that matter. Most believe that this edge is what makes him the front-runner to lift the ROTY trophy by the end of the season.

Despite the friendly relationship they have, Ayton will likely have a thing or two to say about that though as he tries to bring the Suns back to relevancy.