Suns center Deandre Ayton suspended for 25 games by NBA

Phoenix Suns plans for a big turnaround season hit an unexpected snag. Center Deandre Ayton was suspended 25 games without pay by NBA on Thursday night for violating terms of NBA/NBPA Anti-Drug Program by testing positive for a diuretic.

first overall pick last year out of Arizona, Ayton averd 16.3 points and 10.3 rebounds as a rookie and was hoping to have a jump in production in his second season.

He had 18 points, 11 rebounds and four blocks Wednesday night in Suns’ season-opening home victory over Sacramento. Ayton was especially proud of blocks, telling media after game that new coach Monty Williams had put a huge emphasis on defense and rim protection.

But good vibes from that victory have quickly evaporated.

“On behalf of Phoenix Suns organization, Monty Williams and I are disappointed in actions by Deandre Ayton that led to his testing positive for a banned diuretic and subsequent suspension by NBA. This does t uphold standards and principles we have set for team,” Suns general manr James Jones said in a statement released by team.

“Deandre has expressed his deepest remorse. While he is suspended we remain committed to his growth and development on and off court. His actions are t taken lightly, and we are committed to ensuring that Deandre understands profound impact it has had on team, organization, and Suns community.”

Ayton was upbeat after Wednesday’s win, giving indication that he was about to miss nearly a third of season. Phoenix had a 19-63 record last season but hoped for a fast rebuild with a roster that was built around Ayton and high-scoring guard Devin Booker.

team hired Williams as coach, signed free-nt point guard Ricky Rubio and re-signed talented forward Kelly Oubre Jr. Suns also added rookies Cameron Johnson and Ty Jerome and depth in frontcourt with veterans Aron Baynes, Dario Saric and Frank Kaminsky III.

w y’ll be without Ayton until mid-December unless suspension is reduced through arbitration process.

“I want to apologize to my family, entire Suns organization, my teammates, partners, our fans and Phoenix community,” Ayton said in a statement. “This was an unintentional mistake and unfortunately I put something in my body that I was completely unaware of.”

“I do understand unfortunate impact that this has on so many ors, and for that I am deeply sorry. I’m extremely disappointed that I’ve let my team down. I will continue to work with Players’ Union (NBPA) to go through arbitration process and am hopeful for a positive resolution.”

Ayton won’t be eligible to return until a road game against Los Angeles Clippers on Dec. 17. Phoenix plays at Denver on Friday night.