The number one pick in the NBA draft is always an invaluable asset. Still, some drafts are more significant than others. Some drafts, or at least the top player in them, are described as generational.
The 2023 draft was one of those classes. There was plenty of talent at the top. Still, Victor Wembanyama towered above everyone. All year long, we knew that whoever landed the first overall pick would select the French phenom. In the end, the San Antonio Spurs got the honors.
Their work isn’t finished. Sure, Wembanyama can be the foundational piece for this organization. They still need to build around him properly. Some have suggested that the Spurs’ first priority should be to land a big man who can absorb some physical contact on Wembanyama’s behalf. How about Deandre Ayton of the Phoenix Suns?
The Trade Proposal
Phoenix Suns receive: F Doug McDermott, G/F Reggie Bullock, G Devonte’ Graham, 2025 First-Round Pick (ATL via SAS)
San Antonio Spurs receive: C Deandre Ayton
As a matter of fact, this isn’t the first time that the Spurs have had a potentially generational big man. It wouldn’t be the first time that they played him at the 4, either. This would be a strange case of history repeating itself.
Obviously, we’re referring to Tim Duncan. His position was a subject of debate throughout his career. Duncan had the size of a 5, and he mostly played like one as well. Still, he typically lined up at the 4. Duncan started his career alongside another all-time great big man David Robinson.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Deandre Ayton, Phoenix Suns & San Antonio Spurs Updates
So, we’ve got history repeating itself again. Ayton bears some resemblance to Robinson. If nothing else, his impossibly muscular physique conjures memories of the Admiral. Should the Spurs assemble another dynamic duo of big men?
Why The San Antonio Spurs Do The Deal
Of course, it’s worth noting that Ayton is not David Robinson. In his prime, Robinson was one of the best centers in the NBA. Ayton doesn’t quite meet that bar. Is he worth this price to the Spurs?
We think so. Ayton is a solid defensive presence who can deter ball-handlers from driving with his massive frame. He’s also a strong pick-and-roll finisher with a soft touch around the basket. Ayton is the best player in this deal – the Spurs should be happy to have him.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Deandre Ayton, Phoenix Suns & San Antonio Spurs Updates
Yet, this is about welcoming Wembanyama to the NBA as much as anything else. In contrast to Ayton, Wembanyama is slight. The Spurs likely don’t want him banging on the low block with the league’s monsters. On the other hand, Ayton is built for that exact job. Should the Suns give him up?
Why The Phoenix Suns Do The Deal
Ayton may have a soft touch around the basket. That doesn’t mean that the Suns will use it. With Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal on this roster, Ayton is about to be bumped even further down the team’s totem pole. That matters: We’ve already heard whispers about Ayton’s dissatisfaction with his role in Phoenix.
Meanwhile, this roster needs depth. The Suns may be losing the best player in this trade, but they’re landing three quality rotation pieces. With a top-heavy roster, that’s a worthy trade-off. McDermott, Bullock, and Graham should all find meaningful usage in The Valley.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Deandre Ayton, Phoenix Suns & San Antonio Spurs Updates
Finally, getting a first-round pick counts too. The Suns have practically none of them. They could flip this pick down the line if their current core is just short of contention. Unless, of course, it lands first overall.
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