5 Trades Suns must make to get rid of Deandre Ayton
By Tyler Watts
3. Deandre Ayton finally lands on Pacers as Suns get depth
The Pacers signed Ayton to a four-year $133 million offer sheet last summer in restricted free agency, but Phoenix matched the deal. Indiana is interested in Ayton, but are they willing to give up a haul to acquire the 6’11 big man?
The Pacers are looking to consolidate picks 26, 29, 32, and 55 in the 2023 NBA Draft to move up, but what if they could turn one of them and some role players into Ayton? Indiana cannot fit five draft picks on their roster, but they can squeeze in more if they move out some players.
This could be a win-win trade. The Pacers get the most talented player and someone they have a plan on how to maximize as the Suns add depth. They could get four role players from this move. Phoenix would have to nail the draft pick, but Hield, McConnell, and Neismith will all immediately find minutes and opportunities in the Valley of the Sun.
The Phoenix Suns would love to get more for Deandre Ayton, but the market may not exist. Only a handful of teams want a starting center. Some are scared off by his contract and others do not have the offensive role that will keep him happy. The Suns could look to add better role players, but that may be their only option.