Phoenix Suns Receive: F Gordon Hayward, C Kai Jones, 2023 First-Round Pick (CHA), 2024 First-Round Pick Swap (CHA), 2025 First-Round Pick (CHA)
Charlotte Hornets Receive: C Deandre Ayton (Sign-and-Trade)
Yes, we know we just wrote that the Charlotte Hornets shouldn’t part with an unprotected 2023 first-round pick. Forgive us. We’re getting a little crazy with this deal.
Here, the Hornets orchestrate an absolute blockbuster. With Ayton entering restricted free agency, it would have to come by way of sign-and-trade. Meanwhile, the Phoenix Suns are the best team in the NBA. Why on earth would they ship off a vital cog in their machine?
They probably wouldn’t. For argument’s sake though, it’s worth noting that they declined to extend Ayton’s contract at the first opportunity. They may be wondering if a non-shooting big man is worth a max contract. Meanwhile, Chris Paul cannot defeat Father Time forever: the clock may be ticking on this Suns core.
Cutting bait now allows them time to regroup around Devin Booker. This trade package happens to give them ample space to do that.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: 3 Intriguing Blockbuster Trades We’d Like To See This Offseason
Gordon Hayward’s contract admittedly impedes them, but the wealth of draft capital they’re receiving here could position them to trade for another star sooner than later. Furthermore, they’re acquiring a promising young big man in Kai Jones to replace some of Deandre Ayton’s production.
Look, this one is probably farfetched. Having proposed two commonly rumored deals, we felt like taking a homerun swing. Still, this is the National Basketball Association: crazier things have always happened.
