Report: Markieff Morris' trade request 'fell on deaf ears'

The Phoenix Suns and disgruntled power forward Markieff Morris could be headed for an awkward training camp.

Morris, unhappy with the team's decision to trade his twin brother, Marcus Morris, publicly voiced his displeasure earlier this month, suggesting the Suns trade him before the preseason. That's not going to happen, with Paul Coro of the Arizona Republic reporting Morris' request "fell on deaf ears."

While Morris admitted he has to show up to training camp, which begins Sept. 28, to avoid facing a fine or suspension, he hasn't joined most of his teammates in the desert for pre-camp workouts.

"I've got to show up. No question," Morris said on Aug. 11. "I will be a professional. Don't get me wrong. But it won't get that far. ... I'm going to be out before then, should be."

Despite Morris' displeasure, Coro writes that the Suns "need and want Morris." Coro also notes the Kansas product "never planned to publicly lash out" at the Suns.

Morris is entering the first season of a four-year, $32-million extension he signed last offseason, a slightly below-market deal for a soon-to-be 26-year-old with his level of production.

Last season, he averaged 15.3 points, 6.2 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 1.2 steals while posting an above-average player efficiency rating and ranking ninth among all power forwards in ESPN's Real Plus-Minus metric.