In the world of basketball, legendary figures often have valuable insights to share. Especially when it comes to nurturing young talent. Recently, a Boston Celtics legend and Matt Barnes, both well-known for their illustrious careers, engaged in a thought-provoking discussion about a 24-year-old, 7′ tall star. A teammate of Kevin Durant, this Phoenix Suns star has been the subject of intense scrutiny and criticism. This has left him believing that he is hated by everyone.

Amidst the waves of controversy, the Celtics legend and Matt Barnes have recognized the immense potential of this gifted athlete. They eagerly delve into the ways he can elevate his game, harnessing their collective wisdom and experience to guide him.

Mentality Matters: A Red Flag for Deandre Ayton

Celtics great Kevin Garnett shed some light on Deandre Ayton in the latest episode of his podcast ‘KG: Certified‘. While acknowledging Ayton’s undeniable skill, Garnett expressed concern about the player’s lack of engagement on the court. ?When I watch the games… I’ll watch the bench and how they react to guys playing and scoring.??

?He doesn’t look like he is there or that he’s engaged as you need him to be,? Garnett emphasized the importance of being a team and sticking together always. Speaking of mentality, Garnett also talked about Ayton’s game adaptability. ?He hasn’t done anything different… He has played him the same way for 4 or 5 games now,? Garnett said while talking about the match-up between Ayton & Nikola Joki? in the playoffs.?

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Barnes strengthened Garnett’s claim by saying, ?It’s always been between his ears… It hasn’t been his skill set.? Implying Ayton can play, but it’s his mentality that is not letting him grow. Barnes also said that the mentality is why Phoenix Suns were hesitant in paying him the big money. Because they doubt that Ayton will provide adequate value for their investment.?

Barnes emphasized Garnett’s point of being a team player and recalled a story of Ayton pouting on the bench as his teammate Jock Landale was giving the team some crucial minutes.?Barnes also reflected on an incident that happened between Chris Paul and Ayton. While The Point God was reaching out for Ayton for a fist bump, he left him hanging.?

Battling Public Scrutiny and Criticism

Deandre Ayton, the first overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft, has endured a tumultuous journey in his young career. Struggling with an icy relationship with his former head coach, Monty Williams, and constantly hearing his name mentioned in trade rumors. Ayton has felt the weight of public scrutiny and criticism.

?I can hear the whole world hating me, in a way, where I think I?m the guy a lot of people point at. I feel like I have no fans out here,”?Ayton claimed some time ago. Despite his undeniable talent, Ayton feels as though he is constantly under the microscope, with the world seemingly against him.

Determined to silence the doubters and reshape the narrative surrounding him, Ayton has committed himself to intense training throughout the summer. He yearns to change the perception of his abilities and prove his worth to both his fans and his team, aiming to unlock his full potential and rewrite his basketball story.

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