Why The Phoenix Suns Do The Deal 

With this deal, the Suns aim to split the difference between making a win-now move and a future-focused one. 

Realistically, there’s a chance this deal makes them better in 2022-23, or at least allows them to avoid regression.

Deandre Ayton may have more to his game than what we’ve seen, but for the time being, Steven Adams is capable of carrying his responsibilities for this Suns team. These two are roughly equal in terms of pick-and-roll finishing and rim protection. 

Meanwhile, Tyus Jones is one of the best backup point guards in the entire NBA. His brand of low-usage game management and smart decision-making will keep this second unit humming. Moreover, with Chris Paul aging, he could be this team’s starting point guard of the future. 

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Deandre Ayton, Phoenix Suns & Memphis Grizzlies Updates

Still, the most important component of this deal for the Suns may be the draft capital. It’s never ideal to trade your recent number one pick, but if you’re forced to, getting some draft picks back is optimal. 

Should the Grizzlies give them up for Ayton?