There’s an expression about the best-laid plans. Basically, it says that they might not work out as you hoped. It applies tenfold in the NBA.

Take the Charlotte Hornets. They were expected to attempt to clear cap space to retain restricted free agent Miles Bridges this summer. Due to some horrific events, that won’t be happening anymore.

Meanwhile, the Phoenix Suns surely expected to keep their core together for the foreseeable future after making the 2020-21 NBA Finals.

Now, it appears their relationship with starting big man Deandre Ayton has been damaged beyond repair. Both organizations need to press forward. When circumstances change, plans change accordingly.

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The Suns are seemingly focused on the Kevin Durant trade market and that will impact Ayton in the sign-and-trade landscape. If Phoenix doesn’t end up being Durant’s landing spot, there are

Here’s a trade that lands Ayton in Charlotte that neither organization was likely expecting to make this summer.