10 Way-too-early 2024 trade deadline candidates Mavericks should monitor

4. Deandre Ayton

The Suns traded for Bradley Beal this offseason and revamped their roster with minimum signings. Ayton was on the block, but Phoenix could not find a suitable deal. The former number-one overall pick is coming off a disappointing season but has immense potential.

Can he improve significantly under new head coach Frank Vogel? If not, Ayton could be back on the block ahead of the trade deadline.

The Mavs have been interested in the 6’11 big man for years. He shares an agent with Luka Doncic and offers upside and athleticism. Dallas’ front office values both traits and believes head coach Jason Kidd and his staff can bring the best out of the 25-year-old.

Ayton averaged 18.0 points and 10.0 rebounds in 30.4 minutes per game last season. He would instantly solve the Mavs rebounding woes, but they would need his rim protection to improve to be the perfect fit.

The 25-year-old still has untapped potential and the desire to be a larger part of the offense. With Beal joining Kevin Durant and Devin Booker, Ayton will be the fourth option at best in Phoenix. Does that lead to a trade request? The Dallas Mavericks will be watching and waiting in the early going.