The Phoenix Suns have a huge conundrum this offseason, both literally and figuratively, in the form of Deandre Ayton.

The big man has firmly sought after a max contract and the Suns aren't exactly teeming with extra dough. Phoenix is paying Devin Booker, Chris Paul, and Mikal Bridges a combined 82 million next season. Robert Sarver reneged on signing a check for a large Ayton extension last offseason, and doesn't seem privy to do the same after the Suns' unceremonious exit this past postseason.

Freeing up space around the edges could potentially be the best way to retain their star center. The Suns are reportedly eyeing a move to do just that, with buzz that they could ask for help from the team they knocked out of the first round – the New Orleans Pelicans.

Article Continues Below
More Phoenix Suns News
Phoenix Suns general manager Brian Gregory during an introductory press conference at the Verizon 5g Performance Center.
Suns trade up to No. 31 with Timberwolves draft dealAlex House ·
Charlotte Hornets center Mark Williams (5) reacts to an official’s call during the second half against the Chicago Bulls at Spectrum Center.
Mark Williams trade grade for Hornets, Suns dealJerry Donatien ·
Phoenix Suns head coach Jordan Ott (left) poses for a photo with general manager Brian Gregory during an introductory press conference at the Verizon 5G Performance Center. Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Suns acquire 36th pick in draft trade with NetsScotty White ·
Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (35) drives with the ball as Houston Rockets forward Dillon Brooks (9) defends during the fourth quarter at Toyota Center.
Bill Simmons rips Phoenix’s draft decisions after Kevin Durant tradeJake Faigus ·
Former Rockets star and current Suns player Dillon Brooks, who filed a restraining order against his ex, Heather Andrews.
Dillon Brooks files restraining order against ex who’s mother of his 2 kidsAndrew Korpan ·
Khaman Maluach talks to the media during the 2025 NBA Draft Combine at Marriott Marquis Chicago.
Khaman Maluach explains emotional reaction to being drafted by SunsZachary Draves ·

Via ESPN draft insider Jonathan Givony:

The Phoenix Suns are said to be one of the teams potentially looking at trade scenarios here, possibly including a player like Cameron Johnson in order to free up salary cap flexibility to keep Deandre Ayton.

The Pelicans have kept their phone lines open ahead of the NBA draft. With no clear need going into next season beyond a clean bill of health for Zion Williamson, they're reportedly listening to offers as a conduit for other teams in exchange for compensation.

Cam Johnson was a big part of the Suns' supporting cast last season. But if shipping him helps lock up Deandre Ayton long-term, then it may be worth the sacrifice.