5 NBA free agents who could use a change of scenery

4. Aron Baynes

When Deandre Ayton was suspended for 25 games, Aron Baynes filled in for the Phoenix Suns’ former No. 1 pick better than anyone could’ve expected.

Baynes actually started 28 games during the regular season. He averaged 13.6 points, 6.7 rebounds and 2.1 assists in just 26.2 minutes a night while flashing a newfound 3-point shot, hitting on 48 of his 128 attempts (37.5 percent).

Bruising screens and rugged interior defense have long been staples of Baynes’ game. Now, he commands attention beyond the arc. Not many bigs do both. Fewer are likely to come on as cheap a contract as the one Baynes will likely command, making him a potentially invaluable bargain piece to a contender missing a presence in the middle.

After returning to the court, Ayton looked very much like the face of the Suns’ center position for years to come. That doesn’t devoid Baynes of a role in Phoenix, whether that’s in the locker room or as an off-the-bench contributor.

But the soon-to-be 34-year-old has the opportunity to move the needle for something greater. Hard to imagine he doesn’t jump at that chance once it presents itself in free agency.