Trade & FA 2024-25:

[SleepingHero]

Former Phoenix Suns big man Deandre Ayton is expected to be on the move once again.

According to NBA insider Brett Siegel, the Portland Trail Blazers - who acquired Ayton via trade last season from Phoenix - are expected to part ways with the former No. 1 overall pick:

“Ayton, who is in the third year of his four-year contract, will be making $34 million this upcoming year. He will make $35.5 million during the 2025-26 season, which is the final year of his contract with Portland. The Blazers still value Ayton as one of the veteran leaders of the team, sources said, which is why it is unlikely they will push for a trade involving the center right now.”

Ayton played in just 55 games for the Blazers last year - his 16.7 point per game mark was the lowest he had in three seasons.

It's not a surprise that the expensive Deandre Ayton will be on the move when the Blazers chose Donovan Clingan 7th in this most recent draft, especially with previous reports about the tardiness he exhibited earlier on in his Portland debut.

I wonder what team will be excited to pickup Ayton and attempt to pay him a contract. At one point in time I was the biggest Ayton kool-aid drinker. I am glad the Mavs have found a better center.