Pass or Pursue: Top 10 NBA Free Agents in 2022

5. Deandre Ayton (Restricted)

Over his four seasons, Deandre Ayton has established himself as one of the most reliable centers in the NBA. The 2021-22 season was his fourth straight averaging a double-double, as he put up 17.2 points and 10.2 rebounds per game, and he did so while also showing he can knock down threes on occasion.

Ayton is closer to an old-school center in that he does most of his damage in the paint, but he's certainly capable of knocking down jump shots -- something the Spurs are currently lacking from their starting center position.

At 6-11 and just 23 years old, it's hard to imagine a better fit for San Antonio this offseason than someone like Ayton. In fact, when I surveyed the Air Alamo staff and fans with 10 wish list scenarios for this summer, signing Ayton finished second among all potential options given.

It's a huge long shot that Deandre would even take a meeting with the Spurs since he's happy in Phoenix, who seems primed to make another deep playoff run. But the pick and roll specialist would instantly make San Antonio a playoff team, so they have to do everything in their power to at least try.

Verdict: Pursue