Charlotte Hornets Receive: C Deandre Ayton

Phoenix Suns Receive: F/C P.J. Washington, F Kelly Oubre, C Mason Plumlee, No. 13 Pick

This trade between the Charlotte Hornets and Phoenix Suns seems like a plausible one. It all starts with how Deandre Ayton and the Suns don’t seem to be on the same page when it comes to his value and how much his next contract should be.

A team that needs a center like the Hornets could look to capitalize on the disconnect that has developed between the Suns and Ayton. If the Suns still don’t believe that Ayton is worth a max contract, they could look to move him.

In this scenario that is what occurs, as Ayton signs a deal with the Suns but is traded to the Hornets for some pieces. Phoenix can’t afford to lose Ayton without getting anything in return, so they agree to work out a sign-and-trade deal.

Mason Plumlee and P.J. Washington can fill the void in the middle as stopgap options. With JaVale McGee and Bismack Biyombo both set to reach free agency this offseason, it would be helpful to have a few potential options in case they were to depart.

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Best & Worst Free Agency Destinations For Deandre Ayton

Kelly Oubre Jr. had the best season of his career in Phoenix and would deepen an already talented group of wings and forwards. The No. 13 pick is another solid asset for the Suns if they want to swing a trade to consolidate some of their newfound players.

How does this deal impact each team? Let’s take a look at it from both of their perspectives, starting with the Hornets.