Deandre Ayton’s value is the subject of much debate as he approaches Restricted Free Agency this summer. In fact, it’s been a question throughout his entire NBA career so far.

He’s valuable. That much goes unquestioned. Is he a max contract player? Was he worth the number one pick? What priority should teams give to a non-shooting big man in 2022?

Well, if anyone is likely to value that archetype, it’s New York Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau. The longtime NBA is notoriously fond of rim protection.

Ayton offers a surplus, and the ability to survive switches as well. His defensive acumen would make him a dream acquisition for the Knicks.

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: 3 Trades The Knicks Should Pursue To Get A Franchise Point Guard

Meanwhile, the Suns don’t appear to be on the same page. They declined to extend Ayton midway through 2021-22.

They played him for 17 minutes in an elimination game against the Dallas Mavericks, citing it as an “internal decision”. His days in Phoenix appear limited.

Here are two sign-and-trades that land him in the Big Apple.