The Phoenix Suns have the chance to land one of the biggest trade targets the NBA has ever seen. With Devin Booker, Chris Paul, and Kevin Durant, the Suns could become a force in the West for years to come.
But that dream could come crashing down in a matter of days if the Suns can’t close the deal soon. You see, Phoenix has yet to find a home for young star Deandre Ayton, who could be crucial in a potential sign-and-trade for Durant (or any other star).
As the Pacers consider making an offer for Ayton, who is a restricted free agent, the young center may have to take matters into his own hands if his team continues to hold out for KD.
“The Indiana Pacers are seriously considering giving him [Deandre Ayton] an offer sheet. They’re also interested in negotiating a sign-and-trade with the Phoenix Suns for Ayton, potentially involving Myles Turner to be his replacement at center. But holding everything up is the Suns’ negotiations for Kevin Durant, which are not probably gonna end soon and Ayton may have to move on and do his own deal,” Windhorst explained.
“The Indiana Pacers are seriously considering giving [Deandre Ayton] an offer sheet. They’re also interested in negotiating a sign-and-trade with [Ayton] potentially involving Myles Turner to be his replacement at center.” (via @WindhorstESPN) pic.twitter.com/lxHI07ffle
— The Trade Deadline (@_TradeDeadline) July 7, 2022
Really, Ayton is at the heart of a Durant deal for Phoenix. With a package built around him, Mikal Bridges, and other assets, the Suns could flip this frustrating situation into Kevin Durant.
But if Ayton agrees to a contract with a new team, it becomes much harder for the Suns to make their next move. Needless to say, the outcome of Ayton talks this offseason could have a direct impact on where Durant and Irving end up.
There are a lot of parts at play here, and there is no way to predict how it will all play out in the end.
