Deandre Ayton questionable for Suns due to right leg contusion, Cam Payne still out

PHOENIX — The Phoenix Suns said Monday that center Deandre Ayton is questionable for Tuesday’s game against the New Orleans Pelicans due to a contusion on his lower right leg.

It wasn’t clear during Saturday’s win over the Cleveland Cavaliers when the injury occurred, but Ayton told the Associated Press’ David Brandt that he had a knee-to-knee hit on the right side of his leg and that he was feeling OK.

Head coach Monty Williams elaborated on the injury after practice Monday.

“He took a — I don’t know if it was a bump or the way he landed — I think it was somewhat of a stinger,” Williams said. “It’s a pretty bad contusion, been bothering him the last couple of days. He’s not the kind of guy who sits out. He’s hurting like that, we got to take it seriously.”

Williams said they are being cautious, something he’s always done if guys have a nick that could linger.

“We’re mindful of what a young team, young players have been through, the stresses on their body the last two years,” Williams said.

It was a positive update considering the unknown of when Ayton exactly injured himself during the game and how, with his status sounding like it’s in the category of being day-to-day.

If Ayton were to miss a game or two, the most logical player to insert into the starting lineup would be backup center JaVale McGee, who plays essentially the same role minus the post touches. That open spot with McGee bumped up could go to either Frank Kaminsky or Jalen Smith, with Smith playing some minutes at the 4 on Saturday while Kaminsky has yet to see rotation time.

PAYNE PROGRESSING

Backup point guard Cam Payne was back at practice on Monday after being out a little over a week due to a right hamstring strain.

But while he was there, Payne didn’t do much and he won’t play on Tuesday. He was involved in non-contact drills, and with the Suns going longer in practice with mostly 5-on-5 play, that meant Payne had to watch.

While his replacement in the rotation Elfrid Payton has had moments, shooting 10-of-20 (50.0%) from the field in three games, the consistency of Payne’s play and his full grasp of Williams’ system will be a big boost when he returns.

The Suns remain at home through the week, with games on Thursday and Saturday before getting back on the road.

Follow @KellanOlson