Bill Simmons Thinks The Suns Got Worse After Trading Deandre Ayton For Two Rotation Players

• Damian Lillard's move to the Bucks overshadows another big trade

• Bill Simmons expresses skepticism about the Suns' received assets, notably questioning the playoff impact of players like Nurkic and Allen

• With the addition of Frank Vogel, known for his expertise in coaching big men, the Suns' decision to trade Ayton seems even more perplexing

In a blockbuster trade that saw NBA All-Star Damian Lillard move to the Milwaukee Bucks, the Phoenix Suns also made waves by parting ways with Deandre Ayton. The former first-overall pick from the 2018 NBA Draft was traded away in the very same deal. Bill Simmons, from The Ringer, expressed his disbelief and disappointment in the Suns' decision. 

On his podcast, Simmons pointedly remarked, "Suns are trying to win this year and got worse. I heard and read that Suns got two rotation players. Did they? Is Nurkic a playoff rotation player? Is Allen a playoff rotation player? For the same money they spent on Ayton, they got two guys. I don’t think they are gonna help them in the playoffs.”

His concerns are primarily centered around the potential synergy Ayton might have had under the guidance of the Suns' new head coach, Frank Vogel. Vogel, renowned for his acumen in coaching big men, has a track record of developing and rejuvenating center players, most notably Dwight Howard during the Lakers' 2020 championship run and Roy Hibbert during his time with the Pacers.

In return for Ayton, the Suns received Jusuf Nurkic, Nassir Little, and Keon Johnson from the Blazers, and sharpshooter Grayson Allen from the Bucks. Simmons questioned the value Phoenix received in the trade, emphasizing that while Nurkic and Allen may get significant playing time, their impact, especially in the postseason, remains questionable. 

Despite Nurkic's solid career numbers and Allen's offensive prowess, the consensus from Simmons is clear: the Suns might have sacrificed too much for a return that doesn't guarantee them an upgrade. It's a move that has left many wondering whether the Suns have jeopardized their championship aspirations.

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Jusuf Nurkic Is Not An Upgrade On Deandre Ayton

The Phoenix Suns raised eyebrows around the league when they traded away Deandre Ayton for Jusuf Nurkic among others. When you juxtapose their respective career stats, it's clear that on paper, Ayton seems to have the edge. Averaging 15.9 points and 10.5 rebounds compared to Nurkic's 12.3 points and 8.6 rebounds, Ayton has consistently been a more impactful player on both ends of the floor.

Beyond the numbers, Ayton brings a youthful energy and athleticism that Nurkic, while skilled, doesn't quite match. This distinction becomes crucial in the fast-paced, high-octane style of modern NBA play, where the ability to run the floor, switch on defense, and dominate the boards can be game-changing.

Furthermore, what might sting the most for Suns fans and analysts alike is the untapped potential Ayton could have realized under the mentorship of Frank Vogel. Vogel's prowess in revitalizing and maximizing the talents of big men is well documented. Given Ayton's raw talent and the trajectory of his career thus far, many believed that under Vogel's tutelage, Ayton could have grown into one of the premier centers in the league.

Trading him away before even exploring that possibility leaves a lingering question: Did the Suns act too hastily?

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Deandre Ayton Can Dominate In Portland 

Deandre Ayton's move to the Portland Trail Blazers signals the potential for a transformative era for both the player and the franchise. As the Blazers move into a post-Lillard phase, they'll be in search of new cornerstones to build around – and Ayton could very well be that centerpiece.

With Lillard's departure and McCollum having left previously, the Blazers are in a transitional phase. This could be an advantage for Ayton. The young center has the opportunity to take on a more prominent role offensively, capitalizing on the vacuum left by the elite guards. Portland can design its offense around Ayton's strengths: his soft touch around the rim, his efficiency in pick-and-roll situations, and his ability to stretch the floor occasionally.

Defensively, Ayton offers the Blazers a chance to build a robust defensive identity. His shot-blocking skills, combined with his agility, make him a significant deterrent in the paint. The Blazers can rally around him on the defensive end, using his presence to set the tone.

Joining a Blazers team in transition could be the best thing for Ayton's career. With a fresh start and the spotlight squarely on him, he has every chance to ascend into a dominant role in Portland and prove his worth as a former number-one pick.

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