Report: Suns Confident in Replacing Ayton's Production
Phoenix Suns center Deandre Ayton figures to receive a handsome check this offseason, it just might not be from the team that drafted him.
As NBA free agency begins Thursday evening, Ayton will begin the process of speaking to teams (legally, at least) as a restricted free agent. The Suns will have the opportunity to match any offer and retain their No. 1 pick.
However, reports suggest the Suns are not willing to pay top dollar to retain Ayton, as a sign-and-trade is very likely.
As the heat continues to rise on rumors and speculation, ESPN's Brian Windhorst appeared on NBA Today and said Phoenix is confident they'll be able to move on from Ayton:
Suns Confident in Replacing Deandre Ayton's Production
"They believe they can find a number of other centers who can give the type of production that Deandre Ayton can. So I would look for them look for either some free agent centers or a maybe a free agent center they can get in a trade back that may not be quite on Ayton's level but can still give them the production and defend the front of the rim," said Windhorst.
"They still have Bismack Biyombo, and JaVale McGee gave them (good production) last season when Ayton was out. They believe they can get a productive season from a center, they just don't want to pay max level dollars for it. I think the Suns are still going to be in great shape and I think they can still make some noise in the offseason."
Ayton and the Suns failed to reach a contract extension last season, as Phoenix reportedly did not come to an agreement on the amount of years for the deal to be worth with his camp. Talks were later labeled as "distant" between the two sides.
Both McGee and Biyombo are pending free agents, and Dario Saric is expected to be healthy for the beginning of next season. Possible targets for Phoenix to acquire in a sign-and-trade include Myles Turner and Clint Capela among others.
Thank you for making Inside The Suns your destination for Phoenix Suns news. Please be sure to give us a like on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter @InsideTheSunsSI for more news, updates, analysis and more!
Top Phoenix Suns News
Woj: Suns, Ayton Have 'No Traction' in Talks
Heat, Celtics Interested in Jae Crowder
Suns Tender Deandre Ayton, Officially Make Him Restricted Free Agent
Two Teams Cool Down in Deandre Ayton Running
Suns Remain Adamant Deandre Ayton is in Team's Future
James Jones Speaks on Not Picking in 2022 NBA Draft
Kendrick Perkins Vouches for Deandre Ayton During 2022 NBA Draft
Kings Reportedly Inquire About Deandre Ayton
Deandre Ayton-Rudy Gobert Swap: Does it Make Sense?
