Deandre Ayton Trade Rumors: Mavericks May Consider Suns Star 'Later,' Not Right Now

Phoenix Suns center Deandre Ayton could be a target for the Dallas Mavericks to pair with Luka Doncic, as ESPN's Tim MacMahon reported on The Lowe Post podcast (57:46 in video):

"He's a name that I've heard around the Mavericks," MacMahon said (1:00:20). "And, you know, I think that would have to be a later-than-right-now type of situation. ... I think that's more than likely a down-the-road conversation."

Ayton has a no-trade clause this season after signing a four-year, $132.9 million contract in the offseason, although MacMahon indicated the center likely wouldn't use his veto in most situations.

The 24-year-old initially signed an offer sheet with the Indiana Pacers as a restricted free agent before the Suns matched the deal.

Ayton ended last season on bad terms with head coach Monty Williams, and the two didn't speak during the offseason. He's also had public incidents with teammates this year.

Earlier this month, the center called out the team's effort after a blowout loss to the New York Knicks.

"I don't even know what's going on," Ayton said. "For me, I could tell you this—I'm not used to the no fight in us."

The big man has remained productive, averaging 17.8 points and 10.1 rebounds per game, but the Suns could seek a change after a disappointing start to the 2022-23 season. The squad entered Tuesday tied with Dallas for sixth in the Western Conference with a 27-25 record.

The Mavericks are also looking to turn things around after finishing January with just a 6-9 record.

Dončić remains an MVP candidate, but scoring depth is a significant issue, especially with Christian Wood sidelined with a thumb injury. Wood is set to become a free agent in the offseason, leaving Dallas with few proven players in the rotation. Spencer Dinwiddie and Tim Hardaway Jr. are the only other players averaging more than nine points per game.

Even if the Mavericks don't make a move before the Feb. 9 trade deadline, adding Ayton in the offseason could be the type of big swing to help get closer to contention.