(05-07-2023, 11:34 AM)Chicagojk Wrote: I think it is important to consider PHX current spot on these trades (most have). PHX is probably in a 3-4 year window (If KD can stay healthy and at his current level of play) and they are void with assets making internal improvement very difficult. They also have a new owner who I am sure had grand plans. So any move to trade Ayton needs to be a clear upgrade to them. This will be difficult if Ayton does not play better, but I don't think new owner will be breaking out his spreadsheet with the goal of getting Howard Eisley.
At this point, a clear upgrade for PHX would be to shed his monstrous contract without needing to add high draft picks.
In doing so they could hope to add to the their depleted bench while starting a minimum salary player like Landale and getting the same production at the position in the playoffs.
I have a hard time believing that Luka is going to suddenly unlock a player that cant take advantage of Dwight and Maxi in the playoffs.
I think that would be wishful thinking on the Mavs part. After signing Kyrie to the Max or close to it, they are not in a position to pay 32mil per season for that kind of wish.