Suns end extension talks with Ayton
Deandre Ayton and the Phoenix Suns did not come to terms on a rookie extension before Monday's 6 p.m. ET deadline.
Ayton, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2018 draft, was looking to follow in the footsteps of Luka Doncic and Trae Young, who both received a maximum extension following their rookie contracts.
With the Suns failing to get a deal done, the 7-footer will be allowed to test the market next offseason as a restricted free agent. Phoenix will be able to match any offer Ayton receives.
Phoenix's hesitancy to offer Ayton the max extension comes after a surprising playoff run which saw the Suns lose in the NBA Finals. The Bahamian big man was an integral piece of the team's success, averaging 15.8 points and 11.8 rebounds while shooting 66% from the field in the postseason.
With Devin Booker and Chris Paul already signed to maximum deals, and Mikal Bridges recently inking a four-year, $90-million extension, the Suns would have to dip into the luxury tax to sign Ayton - something owner Robert Sarver hasn't done since he took over before the 2009-10 season.