5 Hypothetical trades that land Deandre Ayton on the Dallas Mavericks

3. Dream trade for Mavericks

The Suns want depth and the at least one first-round pick feels like a necessary part of any trade here. Dallas won’t be eager to give up their 2023 lottery pick, though. They could look to trade the Suns some depth and force them to take on a negative contract if they want the premium draft choice.

Here the Suns get a much-needed shot-maker in Tim Hardaway Jr. and a top-ten draft pick to upgrade their roster further. JaVale McGee played a key role for the Suns in 2022 before arriving in Dallas on a multi-year deal, and Phoenix may welcome him back if Ayton is gone. They will certainly have open playing time at the five.

The Mavericks would love to clear the Bertans contract off their books. He is owed $17 million next season with just $5 million guaranteed in the 2024-25 season. Could they convince the Suns to take it? Bertans could play a minimal role off the bench in Phoenix as he provides floor space to any lineup. The Suns would love to have some additional shooting next to Kevin Durant and Devin Booker.

The Suns would likely scoff at this offer. Most fans assume the following trade is more likely, but involving Kyrie Irving in the deal is mighty complicated because the eight-time All-Star is not currently under contract.