Ayton Returns to Pace Suns in 111–107 Win Over Blazers in OT

Phoenix Suns guard Cameron Payne (R) loses control of the ball as Portland Trail Blazers forward Tony Snell (L) defends during the first half of an NBA basketball game in Portland, Ore., on Dec. 14, 2021. Steve Dipaola/AP Photo

PORTLAND, Ore.—Deandre Ayton had 28 points and 13 rebounds in his return from a non-COVID-19 illness, and the Phoenix Suns held off the Portland Trail Blazers 111–107 in overtime Tuesday night.

Chris Paul, who made the jumper that forced overtime, added 24 points and 14 assists for a Phoenix team still missing leading scorer Devin Booker.