Jamal Crawford Weighs-In On David Robinson & DeAndre Ayton Comparison
Last month, ESPN’s Kendrick Perkins compared DeAndre Ayton to NBA legend David Robinson. If unfamiliar with the Admiral, he is a Hall of Famer, two-time champions, and the 1994-95 MVP with the San Antonio Spurs.
“This man DeAndre Ayton, the new modern-day right-handed David Robinson. Yes, I said it ‘The Admiral.’ This kid is very special; he dominated the floor on both ends of the floor. 19 points, 22 rebounds, nine offensive rebounds. He was relentless on the glass and anchored the defense, then switched one through five guarding the guards on the perimeter,” said Perkins.
“Then anchoring the middle, the Clippers couldn’t get nothing in the paint. That is why they had to settle for so many jumpers because he did a phenomenal job. So, with that being said, he was the best player on the floor, which is why the Suns won this game.”
Recently, former Suns guard Jamal Crawford played with Ayton during his rookie season.
“I think DA [DeAndre Ayton] is DA I also think David Robinson is a legend as well. He could run like a gazelle. He looked like he was the best condition athlete on the court. No matter who was out there. David Robinson is himself and DA is something different,” said Crawford.
“To see a guy that big and who can move literally that can effect shots, and has no fear. The way he sees the floor. I remember his rookie year he made a pass across the court, and I had not watched him in college. So, I was like, is that an accident, or did you really know that I was open. Then I saw him do it over and over again over the course of the season… Oh, he has a gift the way he moved that ball and how unselfish he was. He never cared about stats. He just wanted to win.”
Crawford would say that he has enjoyed watching Ayton play throughout these playoffs and in his first finals. He likes how he has developed since his rookie season.
Crawford last played in the league as a member of the Brooklyn Nets in the NBA Bubble. Unfortunately, he suffered an injury during his debut and did not return. As for Ayton this season, he has averaged 14.4 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game in 69 games with the Suns.
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