DeAndre Ayton Not Dominating in Trade Participation

AUGUST 5 WHERE TO NOW AYTON? The Portland Trail Blazers have a logjam at the center position following the 2024 NBA Draft. After Portland drafted UConn alum Donovan Clingan seventh overall, the trade clock for DeAndre Ayton began ticking. Although the Trail Blazers are in no rush to start winning, paying Ayton $69.5 million to fall in the top 10 of the lottery doesn't seem productive.

Ayton had moments last season that showcased the former Phoenix Suns defensive piece as an adequate player in the NBA. However, in light of the contract and scarce market for a center of Ayton's skill set and tag price, Portland had no significant inquiries for the services of the self-proclaimed "DominAyton."

Ill-fitting nickname aside, Portland values Ayton's veteran leadership, according to Clutchpoints Brett Sigel. Ayton averaged 16 points and 11 rebounds last season. Unless your name is Ben Simmons, the trade market fluctuates.

AUGUST 4 FROM ONE INTERNATIONAL STAR TO ANOTHER As Luka Doncic watched the Paris Olympics from home like us, he witnessed tennis great Novak Djokovic achieve a historic feat. Already an all-time tennis player, Djokovic added to his legend with his first gold medal at 37.

Djokovic is the oldest player to win a gold medal in tennis since 1908. Following the Serbian's historic achievement, Doncic posted on Instagram to express his admiration for the tennis star.

Doncic's congratulatory Instagram post stems from an apparent mutual respect between the two stars of their respective sports. Djokovic and Doncic shared a moment of embrace during the 2022 FIBA World Cup.

See the Instagram post here .