The Phoenix Suns season has ended in a similar way to the previous one: in the Conference Semifinals and after suffering a harsh correction in the last two games, this time with the Denver Nuggets as executioners.
This new disappointment comes after the strong bet made at the market close by management with the acquisition of Kevin Durant. The addition of him has not been enough to face a much more solid and deep team, which will force the franchise to make important decisions in the offseason.
The departure of Mikal Bridges and Cameron Johnson to Brooklyn as pieces of the Durant operation has left few assets available in Arizona, so those relevant changes that they want to undertake point to the best players on the current squad. According to the media ESPN y HoopsHypeDeandre Ayton and Chris Paul emerge as the big candidates to leave the franchise, either just one of them or both.
The Suns probably won’t be able to acquire another star by leaving the two players, but they would be in a good position to add several role players who can strengthen the group and fill the gaps in it. Ayton’s trade value has declined due to his stagnant development and lack of playoff intensity. Even so, several teams would be interested in him only at “a good price”, considering that he signed a maximum contract next summer. Mavericks, Bulls, Spurs, Hornets and Pacers, who originally bid for him, emerge as potential destinations, according to HoopsHype.
On the other hand, Paul might not have much commercial value given his age and his recent history of injuries in the big moments of the course. It should be noted that the base only has guaranteed 15.8 million (all corresponding to the 2023-24 academic year) of the 60 that he has left to receive in his next two years of contract, which could facilitate his departure.
(Cover photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)
2023-05-12 17:00:00
#Deandre #Ayton #Chris #Paul #spotlight
