The Phoenix Suns have one of the most stacked starting lineups in the NBA ahead of the upcoming campaign.
But ironically, they could barely field a team right now, as they only have eight players under contract and not a lot of money left to operate.
Moving on from Deandre Ayton was the obvious and easiest way to free some cap space and get more depth, but that hasn’t happened thus far.
Shockingly, NBA insider Marc Stein (via NBACentral) just reported that the Suns actually turned down a very generous offer from the Dallas Mavericks.
A trade between Phoenix and Dallas that was discussed:
Mavericks receive:
Deandre AytonSuns receive:
Tim Hardaway Jr.
Richaun Holmes
JaVale McGeeSuns declined.
“The talks with Dallas were not going to furnish Phoenix with any future first-round draft compensation but… pic.twitter.com/p69L6u5hUH
— NBACentral (@TheNBACentral) June 27, 2023
Per Stein, the Mavs offered JaVale McGee, Richaun Holmes, and Tim Hardaway Jr. in return for Ayton.
The offer initially tempted the Suns, but they eventually turned it down because the Mavs didn’t offer any first-round draft compensation.
Truth be told, one could argue that a former No. 1 pick under team control for a long time should be worth at least a couple of future first-rounders, but it’s not like the Suns are in a position to play hardball here.
Not many teams will be interested in Ayton’s big contract with this new CBA coming, especially after watching his effort against Nikola Jokic in last season’s playoffs.
The Suns have committed $161 million to just four players, and that’s not a winning formula, especially not in the new CBA.
Hopefully, for the fans, they won’t end up regretting turning down this trade, especially if Ayton continues to show that evident lack of drive and motivation next season.
NEXT: Jay Williams Reveals His Thoughts On The Suns' Title Chances
