According to BD Cricket, the Phoenix Suns remain interested in acquiring a point guard, with T.J. McConnell emerging as a potential target following the departure of Chris Paul. The team’s recent flurry of moves, however, has temporarily put those plans on hold. First, they traded Cameron Payne, a second-round pick, and cash considerations to the Spurs in exchange for another second-rounder. Then they signed Bol Bol on a minimum deal and flipped a first-round swap for three second-round picks from the Magic.
Experts believe the Suns’ decision not to immediately pursue McConnell was financially motivated. Yet, what truly stirred debate among BD Cricket readers was the ongoing situation surrounding Deandre Ayton. While his scoring struggles weren’t the central issue, fans took issue with his on-court demeanor and apparent lack of urgency, which stood out during the team’s playoff exit.
Despite the criticism, a Suns executive insisted Ayton will continue to play a vital role defensively and that they plan to involve him more offensively rather than relegating him to setting screens and chasing offensive rebounds. Some believe Ayton deserves more support. After all, he’s a former No.1 overall pick, now 25 years old, and it’s only natural he’d want to feel like a franchise cornerstone instead of being pushed further from the team’s core.
BD Cricket analysts note that while some players get lost in social media and external chatter, Ayton has struggled with motivation, appearing to lose the hunger that drives elite performance. Though Suns management continues to publicly back Ayton, including new head coach Frank Vogel expressing confidence in his ability to coach him, trade rumors refuse to die down. Recent reports suggest the Suns remain open to moving Ayton if the right deal comes along.
Last week, the Dallas Mavericks reportedly re-entered talks, proposing a trade package including Tim Hardaway Jr., Richaun Holmes, and JaVale McGee in exchange for Ayton. While the Suns like Hardaway and Holmes, BD Cricket sources say they rejected the offer primarily because they didn’t want McGee back on the roster. Notably, the proposal included no first-round picks, with Dallas reportedly unwilling to offer one for Ayton.
As the offseason continues, the Suns face a delicate balance — trying to reinforce their point guard depth, determine Ayton’s true fit, and manage cap space. The ball, it seems, is still very much in their court.