Why The Dallas Mavericks Do The Deal 

Some Mavericks fans will protest. Doncic already has a pick-and-roll partner, they’ll say – and you’re sending him to the Suns in this deal!

Sure. At the same time, Christian Wood has struggled to earn head coach Jason Kidd’s trust in 2022-23. In all likelihood, that’s due to his inability to defend the rim. 

Ayton can do that. He’s not an elite defensive big man, but he’s absolutely a capable one.

His vastly superior strength allows him to hold his ground and station himself in the paint more effectively than Wood. 

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Deandre Ayton, Phoenix Suns & Dallas Mavericks Updates

That also makes him a more impactful pick-and-roll finisher. At the same time, unlike Wood, Ayton does not space the floor. 

Should the Suns put so much emphasis on Wood’s ability to do so?