Two players that haven’t fit well within their respective franchises recently are Deandre Ayton and Jordan Poole.
The Suns franchise hedged all its bets on Kevin Durant and now has sensationally fired head coach Monty Williams, so nothing is off the table.
Although former number one pick Ayton has helped Phoenix to the postseason for the last three years, the fit hasn’t always been seamless.
Ayton’s time in Phoenix has been “awkward” the last two seasons and he would be “excited about a fresh start with another franchise”, according to ESPN’s Tim MacMahon.
Over the past two seasons, Ayton’s rebounds per game have been on the decline but his points have been slowly increasing. The big man averaged 18 points and ten rebounds per game this season.
Kevon Looney had a fantastic postseason for Golden State but the team definitely need someone who can provide consistent offense at center.
Plus, Golden State desperately need some size.
24-year-old Ayton has three years left on a contract that will pay him at least $32 million per season.
If the Warriors do negotiate a deal for Ayton, it would make sense for the centerpiece to be Poole.
His $128 million extension begins next season but he’s had the season from hell. Starting over may be just what he needs.
“I think Poole can go somewhere and flourish and reach his potential,” NBA Insider Chris Haynes said on the #thisleague UNCUT podcast on May 14.
The Suns need a guard because Chris Paul can’t be relied upon to play consistent minutes. 23-year-old Poole played in 94 games this season.
If the Warriors were to part ways with another player like Draymond Green or Klay Thompson either this season or next, it makes the trade even easier.
The Dubs will add depth, size and will make it cheaper for themselves in the long run.
Something’s got to give at Golden State, so this trade may just be a step in the right direction.