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DeAndre Ayton Looks Thrilled to Be With Trail Blazers in First Visit Since Trade

The former No. 1 pick, who was acquired by Portland in the blockbuster Damian Lillard deal, was unable to contain his excitement in a trip to his new team’s facility.

Frankie Taddeo

DeAndre Ayton Looks Thrilled to Be With Trail Blazers in First Visit Since Trade
DeAndre Ayton Looks Thrilled to Be With Trail Blazers in First Visit Since Trade /
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Deandre Ayton, who was acquired by Portland in this week’s blockbuster Damian Lillard trade, was unable to contain his excitement about joining the Trail Blazers in a video released by the club on Friday.

The former No. 1 pick in the 2018 NBA Draft was acquired by Portland, along with Toumani Camara from the Suns and Jrue Holiday from the Bucks, as major pieces in the deal as the club looks to build a contending roster in the Western Conference without Lillard for the first time in a decade.

Ayton, who averaged 18.0 points and 10.0 rebounds last season, was joined by Camara to tour the team’s facility for the first time, an experience that the Blazers captured on video.

“This is so wonderful. I feel like I just got drafted,” said an enthusiastic Ayton. “I’m so glad to be here. This is lit. I am ready."

The 25-year-old center told fans of his new team that he feels blessed and appreciative of the new start in Portland.

“What up, RIP City? It’s DA. aka ‘Dominayton.’ Super glad to be here, super honored,” Ayton added. “I can’t wait to get this thing started with you guys. Let’s get it.”

The club’s video comes on the heels of Ayton’s social media post on Thursday night where he thanked the Phoenix fans, teammates and coaches.

“Phoenix, Grateful for the journey…for the people who supported me, cheered me on, challenged me & helped me grow,” he wrote. “To the fans, teammates, coaches, staff, thank you. All love for the valley💜🧡 Portland, LETS GO! Ready for the next chapter…excited to be a Trailblazer #RipCity.”

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Frankie Taddeo
FRANKIE TADDEO

Frankie Taddeo is a successful high-stakes fantasy football player who created the first-ever DFS program offered in a Las Vegas sportsbook. Besides contributing NFL fantasy analysis with a Vegas slant, Frankie primarily performs as Sports Illustrated's Senior Betting Analyst providing his significant experience and resources in the sports betting scene. 

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