Markieff Morris Oddly 'Super-Excited' to Play With Tyson Chandler, Phoenix Suns

Ever since his twin brother Marcus Morris was traded to the Detroit Pistons this offseason, Markieff Morris has publicly demanded a trade from the Phoenix Suns. Though he never threatened to hold out of camp, Morris boldly predicted that he would not be on the Suns’ roster come the end of the year. Now, one day away from the start of training camp, Morris has done a complete 180.

At media day today, Morris mentioned that the season isn’t about him, but about his teammates and the organization, and the ultimate goal is to make the playoffs. However, another comment he made may have provided some insight on to what, or who, helped Morris adjust his attitude so quickly. He said he was “super excited” to play alongside free-agent acquisition Tyson Chandler.

When the Suns targeted Chandler this offseason, sure, they were interested in his defensive ability. A known rim protector, Chandler was the Defensive Player of the Year in 2012. And yes, the team looked at Chandler for his rebounding skills. He averaged 11.5 RPG last season, and owns a career average of 9.3. However, the team was also looking at the intangibles Chandler possesses. The Suns were in need of a veteran presence both on the court and in the locker room, and they felt Chandler was the guy.

It looks like it could already be paying off. From Day 1, Chandler has vowed to tell it like it is. Chandler referenced time spent playing with guys like Jason Kidd, Dirk Nowitzki and Charles Oakley — all players who weren’t afraid to tell you the truth, whether it was what you wanted to hear or not. Chandler may have already started to lay it all out with Morris.

All offseason long, every time Morris spoke, he would blast the Phoenix organization and demand a trade. He even took to Twitter on multiple occasions to express his displeasure. Now, 24 hours prior to training camp — in what is likely the first meeting between Chandler and Morris — the latter is fully committed to the Suns, no hard feelings. I don’t think it’s a stretch to think that Chandler may have pulled Morris aside and explained to him that this is about the team, and as long as he’s here, he better give his full effort to his teammates.

How else can you explain such a drastic attitude change?

Derek McVay is a Boston Celtics and NBA featured writer for www.RantSports.com. He also contributes to the NFL. Follow him on Twitter @mcvay34, or add him to your network on Google.