The Phoenix Suns face a decision regarding Deandre Ayton this NBA offseason.
To many, it’s a no-brainer. They made the NBA Finals in 2020-21 and followed that up by finishing 2021-22 with the best regular-season record in the league. No matter what happens in these playoffs, they have to offer him a max contract in restricted free agency, don’t they?
Not so fast. The Suns had the opportunity to extend him following their Finals run. They chose not to. Ayton is a non-shooting big man. Many would make the case that it’s preferable not to commit a max salary slot to such a player. Furthermore, Suns owner Robert Sarver is notoriously protective of his wallet.
It feels surprisingly possible that the recent number one overall pick may find a new home this summer. Somebody is likely to offer him a max contract. He’s 23.
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Ayton may not be a 3-point shooter, but he’s highly efficient from mid-range and has continued to improve as an interior scorer. He’s also capable of defending in space, offering the versatility to be a defensive anchor.
He’s very good. If the Indiana Pacers like him enough, here are two sign-and-trade packages they could offer the Suns to get him in the Hoosier State.
