Deandre Ayton

After the disappointing end to the Phoenix Suns’ playoff run, there has been increasing noise that it’s the end of Deandre Ayton’s time with the organization.

The Suns were reluctant to reach an agreement with Ayton on max contract extension before the 2021-22 regular season began. He produced strong numbers in the regular season, but he wasn’t factored into much of their half-court offense in the Western Conference Semifinals.

What seems to be the main issue with the Suns and Ayton is that his effort level seemingly diminished when his team needed him the most against the Mavericks. Instead of running out to shooters and making hustle plays, he was appearing to coast.

There will be no shortage of teams interested in acquiring Deandre Ayton when he reaches restricted free agency. He still averaged 17.2 points and 10.2 rebounds last season and was the anchor for an effective Suns defense that needed his paint presence.

LATEST NBA NEWS AND TRADE RUMORS: Dallas Mavericks Trade For Houston Rockets Center Christian Wood

The Mavericks taking Christian Wood off the market doesn’t hurt his market since the San Antonio Spurs, Toronto Raptors, Portland Trail Blazers, Detroit Pistons, and Atlanta Hawks were all linked as potential Deandre Ayton suitors.