This Suns-Thunder Trade Features Deandre Ayton

NBA Analysis Network

Why The Oklahoma City Thunder Do The Deal

This deal isn’t difficult to justify for the Thunder, either.

Sure, they’re giving up a lot of value. At the same time, it wouldn’t be a shock if the Rockets made bold choices to accelerate their own timeline this summer. They know they owe this pick as well as anyone else does.

Meanwhile, as talented as Giddy is, the presence of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander renders him somewhat expendable. This deal helps the Thunder achieve some roster balance. They don’t have a big man who can control the glass like Ayton.

He should help Chet Holmgren ease into NBA life as well.

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Deandre Ayton, Oklahoma City Thunder & Phoenix Suns Updates

The rail-thin lottery pick may benefit from easing into the league as a 4, feasting on weakside shot-blocking opportunities with Ayton protecting the rim.

The Thunder may not be rushing the process with this deal – they’ll just be completing it.

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James Piercey

When it comes to exploring the endless possibilities of NBA trades, there's no one quite like James Piercey. With a keen eye for player dynamics, salary cap intricacies, and a knack for discovering uncharted trade territory, James has risen to prominence as the preeminent expert in the realm of hypothetical NBA trades. James is also known for his work covering the Houston Rockets for SB Nation's The Dream Shake — a blog that gives a daily, comprehensive look at the team. He has written for various outlets, including FanSided and Last Word on Sports, among others.

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