NBA Trades: 3 sign-and-trades for Deandre Ayton and the Phoenix Suns

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SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH – APRIL 08: Deandre Ayton #22 of the Phoenix Suns celebrates a basket during the second half of a game against the Utah Jazz at Vivint Smart Home Arena on April 08, 2022 in Salt Lake City, Utah, NBA Trades: 3 sign-and-trades for Deandre Ayton and the Phoenix Suns. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images) /

The Phoneix Suns collapsed in embarrassing fashion in the Western Conference Semifinals, losing to the Dallas Mavericks in seven games, with the final two games being absolute blowouts in favor of the Mavs.

Devin Booker, Chris Paul, and Deandre Ayton combined to score just 26 points, and now, as the offseason approaches, there are a ton of questions as to whether or not the Suns will run it back.

While Booker and Paul will be back in Phoenix next year, many have debated whether or not the same can be said for Ayton. GM James Jones said that he expects Ayton to return, but based on reports, the big man does not feel appreciated by the team.

Ayton will enter restricted free agency this offseason, meaning the team can match any deal he gets. However, if they choose to part ways, here are three sign-and-trades that could benefit the Suns.

NBA Trades: 3 sign-and-trades for Deandre Ayton and the Phoenix Suns: Utah Jazz

Suns receive: Rudy Gobert

Jazz receive: Deandre Ayton

Some could argue that this would be an upgrade for the Suns. Rudy Gobert is a three-time All-Star and two-time Defensive Player of the Year who would elevate the Suns’ defense.

In addition, having a point guard like Chris Paul next to him could also help elevate Gobert on the offensive side of the ball. Paul is one of the best point guards of all time, so having that at his disposal would benefit Gobert greatly.

Gobert and the Utah Jazz may be at a breaking point. With how their season ended, many have speculated that the team could look to trade Gobert or Mitchell.

With reports coming out that the Jazz want to rebuild around Mitchell, trading for a young, up-and-coming center would help prepare them for the future.

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