One of the most surprising trades that happened on trade deadline day was the trade that sent Elfrid Payton from the Orlando Magic to the Phoenix Suns. In return for Payton, the Magic received a second round pick, which in a trade for a starting point guard doesn't seem like a lot.
HoopsHype caught up with Payton, and he had some interesting comments about the trade. When asked if he felt disrespected being traded for only a second round pick, he said:
“I mean… A little bit. I think a lot of other people were more upset about it than I was, though. Others took it to heart more than I did, but that’s just because of the type of person I am. I’m pretty nonchalant and I don’t really get worked up, so it wasn’t really that big of a deal to me. I’ve always felt underrated and felt like I have to prove myself. I’m the kind of player who feels like you have to prove yourself every single night – no matter what you’ve done or who you are – because in this league everyone is thinking, “What have you done for me lately?” So it wasn’t too big of a deal to me.”
Payton also seems to be enjoying the experience with the Suns so far, and hopes to stay long-term:
“Yeah, I really could. Obviously, it’s not only up to me and I understand the business side of the NBA, but this is definitely somewhere I could see myself being for a long time.”
He has had a nice start with the Suns and looks really comfortable in his new home. He has started three games with the Suns and has averaged 20.3 points, 8.7 assists, and 7.3 rebounds.
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