Phoenix Suns: 3 offseason steps to take after embarrassing playoff exit

Phoenix Suns step No. 2: Figure out what to do with Deandre Ayton

Deandre Ayton is set to become a restricted free agent this summer, and all signs are pointing to a divide between the Suns and the big man. Formerly the first overall pick of the 2018 NBA draft, Ayton has made continued strides and improvement to become an all-star level player on both sides of the ball.

Despite this, the Arizona-product saw limited playing time in the second half of game seven, with Monty Williams citing internal issues. This contract dispute has been going on since last season, when Phoenix ownership refused to give Ayton the max rookie extension that he desired, instead of allowing him to test the restricted market.

The Suns are certainly a better team when Ayton’s on the floor. He averaged 17.2 points and 10.2 rebounds in his fourth year in the league, most of it spent as a third option. If they were to lose him in the offseason, they don’t have a set center in mind to replace him, creating a clear hole in the lineup.

With that being said, if the rift between Ayton and the Phoenix Suns’ coaching staff and front office is too far gone, it may make sense to cut ties. In that situation, Phoenix would have to garner as much back as they can in a potential sign-and-trade, whether that be another option at center or productive role players to surround the young core.

Ultimately, even with the aging Paul and looming free agency of Ayton, the Suns still have a team that should make the playoffs every year. They either have two viable options: to keep Ayton and repair the relationship between him and the team or flip him for viable assets that can bolster the Suns’ chances in the playoffs. If they lose him for nothing, it would be a failure of unproportional levels.