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Upcoming restricted free-agent center Deandre Ayton was reportedly on the Detroit Pistons wish list. However, after the team selected Memphis big man Jalen Duren during the 2022 NBA draft, it appears that Detroit has now had a change of heart. The 23-year-old is still likely on his way out of Phoenix, with teams like the Spurs and Hawks emerging as possible suitors. But without Ayton on Detroit's roster, Duren, Isaiah Stewartand Marvin Bagley III, whom the Pistons hope to bring back, just received a bump in fantasy potential.
Phoenix Suns center Deandre Ayton might've played his final game with the organization. The young center wants a max deal this offseason, but the Suns appear to be hesitant about giving him that extension. That being said, Ayton could very well be traded this offseason, assuming the two sides can't agree on a deal. He is an unrestricted free agent, which means a sign-and-trade could happen. Ayton would likely be fine with leaving the Suns, assuming he can get paid and play a significant role elsewhere. This issue between the Suns and Ayton is likely to linger well into the summer.
Free-agent center Deandre Ayton is expected to be pursued by multiple teams over the summer, with the Pistons being one of them. Still, because the 23-year-old is a restricted free agent, the Suns have the ability to match any offer heading his way. However, Detroit may make Jerami Grant available in a sign-and-trade scenario, although things may change in the weeks ahead. Ayton averaged 17.2 points and 10.2 rebounds during the regular season, but his numbers on the glass dipped during the postseason. The 2018 No. 1 overall pick has the potential to be an even bigger threat in the middle for any club moving ahead. Yet, his inconsistent play won't do fantasy managers any favors. He'll also need to improve defensively.
Free-agent center JaVale McGee is interested in remaining in Phoenix. The veteran averaged 9.2 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks last season with the Suns and was considered one of the best backup big men in the league. McGee probably won't have a consistent role in any lineup moving ahead, especially considering his advanced NBA age. However, the 34-year-old should be good for some impactful fantasy performances during the 2022-23 campaign, regardless of where he's playing.
Phoenix Suns center Deandre Ayton was disappointed the team didn't offer him a max contract, according to his agent Bill Duffy. The 23-year-old averaged 17.2 points and 10.2 rebounds during the 2021-22 season. He also shot a career-high 63.4% from the field and 36.8% from deep. However, the former No. 1 overall pick hasn't played an entire season since entering the league in 2018. Nonetheless, with Ayton being a restricted free agent heading into the summer, the Suns will have the opportunity to match offers from other teams, which is more than likely considering how impactful he's been. One thing is certain, wherever Ayton ends up, he'll remain a desired fantasy option for managers ahead of the 2022-23 campaign.
