In what has already been an eventful offseason, the Phoenix Suns are rumored to be considering more moves that could significantly change the team’s landscape heading into the new NBA season.
Despite the many changes they have already made, insider Danny Marang, during a recent segment on the “Danny & Dusty show”, shared insights hinting that the Suns are interested in a potential deal involving their young star center, Deandre Ayton. Interestingly, this deal does not depend on the speculated movement of the Portland Trail Blazers’ guard, Damian Lillard.
“The thing about the Deandre Ayton deal is,” Marang said. “The way it’s been explained to me is that it’s a deal that’s there for Portland regardless of who they deal Dame to. Let’s say it’s to Miami, then Dame goes to Miami & Nurk is sent to PHX, & Miami sends Caleb Martin to PHX.”
“The thing about the Deandre Ayton deal is, the way it’s been explained to me is that it’s a deal that’s there for Portland regardless of who they deal Dame to. Let’s say it’s to Miami, then Dame goes to Miami & Nurk is sent to PHX, & Miami sends Caleb Martin to PHX” @DannyMarang pic.twitter.com/gbFKZNGz4n
— Dru (@dru_star) September 23, 2023
According to Marang, a proposed deal structure could see Deandre Ayton head to Portland, regardless of whether or not Damian Lillard moves to another franchise like the Miami Heat. The outline Marang gave suggests a three-team transaction where, hypothetically, if Lillard moves to Miami, Phoenix could end up acquiring players like Jusuf Nurkic from Portland and Caleb Martin from Miami.
The Suns’ strategy for the upcoming season
Diving deeper into Phoenix’s roster strategy, the Suns’ goals aren’t just limited to finding a replacement for Ayton. They’re also in the market for a seasoned point guard. With star guards Devin Booker and a recent addition in Bradley Beal managing the backcourt, it might seem unnecessary. However, Marang emphasized the Suns’ desire to have an “emergency ball handler.”
“In moving Deandre Ayton, [Phoenix’s] goals are to get a big & a point guard,” Marang said. “As much as they have Book & Beal to run their offense, they want an emergency ball handler.”
“In moving Deandre Ayton, [Phoenix’s] goals are to get a big & a point guard. As much as they have Book & Beal to run their offense, they want an emergency ball handler. There’s been thoughts about Kyle Lowry but he’s just too expensive. The money is just way obscene”@DannyMarang pic.twitter.com/dT1C5uMFY0
— Dru (@dru_star) September 23, 2023
While veteran point guard Kyle Lowry had reportedly been on Phoenix’s radar, his asking price appears to be a significant barrier. Marang stated, “There’s been thoughts about Kyle Lowry, but he’s just too expensive. The money is just way obscene.” However, another potential target is guard TJ McConnell, who is reportedly still in consideration by the Suns’ front office.
As the new season approaches, it remains to be seen if the Suns can navigate their financial constraints and make another significant move in the trade market. It looks like they’re gearing up for a deep playoff run, and they’re willing to make the necessary moves to get there.
