Deandre Ayton and Jusuf Nurkic Trade Speculation: Suns Eye Salary Relief in Offseason Moves

By Edcel Panganiban June 07, 2025 10:30

The Phoenix Suns are once again at a pivotal juncture this offseason, with significant trade speculation swirling around former No. 1 overall pick Deandre Ayton and center Jusuf Nurkic. Both players, acquired in high-profile moves over the past few years, have become central figures in the Suns’ efforts to recalibrate their roster and gain much-needed salary cap flexibility.

The Ayton-Nurkic Saga: A Costly Exchange

Deandre Ayton, drafted first overall in 2018, was once viewed as the cornerstone of the Suns’ resurgence, helping the team reach the 2021 NBA Finals. However, a combination of on-court struggles, defensive lapses, and a disconnect with coaching staff led Phoenix to trade Ayton in 2023 as part of a blockbuster deal involving Damian Lillard. In return, the Suns acquired Jusuf Nurkic, Nassir Little, Keon Johnson, and Grayson Allen, along with draft assets.

While Ayton averaged a strong 18.0 points and 10.0 rebounds per game on 58.8% shooting in his last season with Phoenix, his regression on defense and inconsistency clouded his value. Nurkic, on the other hand, was expected to fill the void at center but struggled to meet expectations. After being demoted to the bench, Nurkic was traded to the Charlotte Hornets along with a 2026 first-round pick for Cody Martin, Vasilije Micic, and a 2026 second-round pick. This move was necessary for Phoenix to shed Nurkic’s $19.3 million salary for the 2025-26 season, highlighting the Suns’ priority on salary relief.

Salary Relief and Roster Flexibility

The Suns’ front office, led by new ownership under Mat Ishbia, has been candid about the challenges posed by the large, long-term contracts on the roster. Ayton’s remaining contract, which included three years and $102 million, was a significant burden. Replacing Ayton’s $32.5 million annual salary with Nurkic’s more manageable $18 million deal, along with smaller contracts like those of Little and Allen, gave Phoenix more flexibility to maneuver in future trades or free agency.

As one source close to the Suns put it, “The Ayton contract was a chokehold on our ability to build around our stars. Moving on was painful but necessary.” The Suns now have a roster with fewer max contracts and more mid-level salaries, allowing them to explore trades and free-agent signings to better complement their superstar core.

What’s Next for Ayton and Nurkic?

Ayton, now with the Portland Trail Blazers, joins a rebuilding team alongside young talents Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe. Portland hopes a change of scenery and a more prominent offensive role will help Ayton regain his form. Meanwhile, Nurkic’s tenure in Charlotte may be short-lived, as the Hornets reportedly consider him a trade candidate due to his hefty salary and declining production.

For Phoenix, the focus remains on leveraging the salary relief gained from these moves. The Suns have acquired players like Cody Martin and Vasilije Micic, hoping they can solidify rotation spots and contribute meaningfully. However, the Suns’ recent history of trading away prime assets for middling returns has left fans and analysts cautious.

The Deandre Ayton and Jusuf Nurkic trades exemplify the Phoenix Suns’ ongoing struggle to balance talent acquisition with salary cap management. While moving Ayton’s large contract for Nurkic and others has provided some financial breathing room, the on-court results have yet to justify the moves fully. As the Suns prepare for the 2025-26 season, their ability to capitalize on this roster flexibility will be critical in determining whether they can return to title contention or face further rebuilding. The Ayton-Nurkic saga remains a cautionary tale about the risks of high-stakes trades and the importance of aligning contracts with team-building strategies.