Deandre Ayton showing why he’s a fit with the Detroit Pistons

The Detroit Pistons will have cap space to use this summer and could target restricted free agent Deandre Ayton.

Ayton is considered one of the top restricted free agents, and it would definitely take a max offer to get him, as the Suns can match any deal put on the table.

Ayton is one of several targets who are playing well in the playoffs right now and might be raising his value as we speak.

The Pistons could use an upgrade at center, and though it doesn’t have to be a guy of Ayton’s price tag, he would be a nice get as a 23-year-old  who offers the rim protection and offensive skillset Detroit needs.

There is also a distinct possibility that Ayton has another level, with Detroit investing in his prime years, so it makes a whole lot of sense, especially after the way Ayton has performed in the playoffs.

He has shown that he can play several roles and be very effective.

Deandre Ayton as a complementary big man for the Detroit Pistons

The Detroit Pistons don’t need a big man to be their primary scoring option, as they already have those in Cade Cunningham, Saddiq Bey, and whoever they add in the 2022 NBA Draft.

What they need is a big man who can work effectively in the pick-and-roll, score efficiently at the rim and be a defensive anchor in the middle.

Ayton showed he can be that guy in game one of the Suns’ series with the Pelicans, scoring an efficient 21 points on just 15 shots, adding nine rebounds and protecting the rim with four blocks.

Ayton was not the primary option in this game, but got his within the flow of the offense, as the 3rd or 4th option with two elite scorers.

But Ayton can be more when he is needed to be.

Deandre Ayton can dominate a game

In last night’s game three win over the Pelicans, the Suns were without leading scorer Devin Booker, so they needed their big man to step up.

He did, scoring 28 points on just 20 shots, adding 17 rebounds, a block and three steals. This was against Jonas Valanciunas, who is no slouch, so Ayton can step up and be the Alpha big when his team needs him.

Having a lob outlet like Ayton, who is also a decent spot up shooter with an improving long-range shot, would take some of the pressure off Cade Cunningham and Killian Hayes.

Ayton has been learning the pick-and-roll with one of the greatest point guards of all time in Chris Paul, so he would give the young guards a weapon they lacked for most of the season.

Some fans balk at a max deal for Ayton, but in my opinion, he’s the exact type of guy you give a max to, as he is the right age, still has another level, is a good teammate with playoff experience and fits a range of needs.

It’s quite possible the Suns will be match any offer after the way Ayton has played in the playoffs, but if they don’t, the Detroit Pistons should be there with a bag.