Deandre Ayton – Phoenix Suns

While he is not expected to go anywhere in free agency, Deandre Ayton’s situation in Phoenix is certainly one to watch this offseason. The former No. 1 overall pick in 2018 is going to be a restricted free agent this offseason after he and the Suns failed to agree on a long-term extension prior to the start of this season. 

According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, Ayton is seeking a max contract from Phoenix, but Suns’ owner Robert Sarver never offered this kind of deal to his star-caliber center. 

Chris Paul and Devin Booker are the main catalysts in Phoenix, but Deandre Ayton has proven crucial to their overall team success. It is hard to imagine the Suns will not agree to terms on a new deal with Ayton in the offseason, but he will be “available” on the market for teams to talk to. 

Finding a way to afford a max contract for Deandre Ayton would be tough, but the Raptors could be willing to move OG Anunoby or Gary Trent Jr. in a sign-and-trade deal for the Suns’ big man. 

LATEST NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Biggest Questions Around NBA For Stretch-Run Of Season

For his career, Deandre Ayton has averaged 16.0 points, 10.6 rebounds and has shot 59.5% from the floor. His constant double-doubles in the playoffs last season allowed the Suns to reach the NBA Finals for the first-time since 1993, proving his worth in this league. 

Now a Top-10, possibly Top-5 center in the league, Deandre Ayton is looking for reassurance from his current franchise that they believe in him to be a building block for them long-term. Should he not get the contract offer he wants from them, Ayton could very well be on the move in the offseason, even though this scenario is unlikely as of right now.