All offseason, the Damian Lillard saga has been the biggest story in NBA circles. As the start of training camp gets closer, more developments on the topic continue to emerge. One Western Conference team appears to be entering the mix in hopes of reshaping their frontcourt.
The reason why a Damian Lillard trade hasn’t happened yet is because the Portland Trail Blazers are looking for a king’s ransom. Since the Miami Heat have limited assets, a third or fourth team is likely needed to get a deal done. The Phoenix Suns could end up being a team that helps facilitate a deal.
While the Suns haven’t been actively looking to trade Deandre Ayton, he could end up being a piece in a Lillard trade. There has been speculation about Phoenix targeting veteran center Jusuf Nurkic to man their frontcourt.
Following the trades for Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal, the Suns have all the offensive firepower they need. Now, they need defensive-minded players to put around this trio of stars. Nurkic is a more physical center than Ayton and could be an anchor for their defense.
Nurkic, 29, played in 52 games for the Blazers last season. In that time, he averaged 13.3 points, 9.1 rebounds and 2.9 assists.
Typicall, one contender wouldn’t help another get better. In this scenario however, the Phoenix Suns should enter themselves into the Damian Lillard trade talks.
While Deandre Ayton might be the better overall player, the Suns need to look at fit. If Phoenix is going to make a deep run, they’ll need a proper supporting cast around their big three. Because of this, Jusuf Nurkic makes much more sense on the roster.
Kevin Durant, Devin Booker and Bradley Beal are going to comman a lot of touches. A diminished role could end up being a problem for Ayton, but that wouldn’t be the case with Nurkic. He’s proven he’s able to thrive alongside a pair of dynamic guards.
This could also benefit the Portland Trail Blazers as well. Ayton is a former No. 1 pick who has shown promise over the years. Bringing in a talent like him makes sense with their young core. Ayton could be their big man of the future alongside young guards Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe.
It’s a move that might take a lot of manuvering, but it’s an avenue the Suns should at least consider pursuing.
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