NBA Trade Rumors: Deandre Ayton Linked To Western Conference Rival

Deandre Ayton is on his way out of Phoenix. That's the word from a number of insiders, including former NBA player-turned-commentator Richard Jefferson.

"Everything I've heard and seen, Deandre Ayton is gone."

Richard Jefferson on Ayton when talking about Chris Paul's future in Phoenix and how #Suns can orchestrate roster if they trade Ayton and Paul.

Kendrick Perkins thinks Paul going to #Lakers would "shake up the league." pic.twitter.com/GiqoyMUfJI

— Duane Rankin (@DuaneRankin) June 8, 2023

"Everything I've heard and seen, Deandre Ayton is gone," said Jefferson. New Suns coach Frank Vogel would have you believe otherwise, saying he thinks Ayton can be even better under his stewardship.

But we've all seen the signs. Ayton wants out of the desert. And according to a report from Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports, the Portland Trail Blazers are a team that's shown some interest. 

The Trailblazers have shown interest in Deandre Ayton, per @JakeLFischer

(h/t @RealGM ) pic.twitter.com/rjDcPyAcMg

— NBACentral (@TheNBACentral) June 10, 2023

The Trail Blazers are in need of beefing up the supporting cast around Damian Lillard this summer, or the longtime Portland superstar could be asking for a trade. He's made that clear. 

Ayton can be a consistent 20-and-10 (points and rebounds) big man on offense, and would be a good complement to Dame's outside assassin capabilities, as well as forward Jerami Grant's complementary talents, should they be able to re-sign the UFA. 

We're sure to hear Ayton's name come up in a number of trade scenarios in the next few weeks. Portland is just one of them. 

 Photo: Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports