Suns’ Deandre Ayton, coach Monty Williams have not spoken since Game 7 blowout, benching

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The Phoenix Suns enter the 2022-2023 NBA season under a cloud of uncertainty after bowing out early during last year's NBA Playoffs, as owner Robert Sarver looks for buyers for the team, and as pundits question whether Phoenix has reached the end of its run. 

After winning 64 games during the regular season, Phoenix was unceremoniously sent home early by the Dallas Mavericks in a 33-point Game 7 loss at home during the Western Conference Semifinals. 

Head coach Monty Williams of the Phoenix Suns poses for a portrait during NBA media day at Events On Jackson on Sept. 26, 2022 in Phoenix.  (Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

The loss was jarring, especially with star center Deandre Ayton playing just 17 minutes, benched by head coach Monty Williams who said it was an "internal" matter.

SUNS’ DEANDRE AYTON ‘HAPPY’ TO REMAIN IN PHOENIX

As the Suns prepare to run it back with point guard Chris Paul entering his 18th season, the relationship between Ayton and Williams still does not appear to be settled. 

"I haven't spoken to him at all, ever since the game," Ayton told reporters after the first practice of the season on Tuesday, according to ESPN. "I can show him better than I can tell him. It's life. Nobody cares about the uncomfortable nature of it, it's how you perform and what you bring to the table. What's said is already said."

ROBERT SARVER TO BEGIN ‘PROCESS OF SEEKING BUYERS’ FOR SUNS, MERCURY AFTER NBA SUSPENSION

The offseason was an interesting one for Ayton, who agreed to the largest offer sheet in the history of the NBA, signing a four-year, $133 million maximum contract with the Indiana Pacers. 

Deandre Ayton, #22 of the Phoenix