It's basically that. There would have to be a bit of tampering going on behind the scenes, with the Suns telling the Pistons who they'd want if they'd be open to a sign and trade.Flagrant Fowl wrote: ↑Thu Jun 23, 2022 2:29 amI've still not really been able to figure out how a rookie can be involved in a sign and trade if this goes down like I think it will.
I suppose the Suns and Pistons (for example) could come to an agreement that involves a rookie next week, but the transaction wouldn't actually go through until the end of July when their rookie becomes trade eligible. That would also prevent the Suns from playing a newly acquired rookie in the Summer League which isn't ideal.
It still seems kind of weird, but I think that's really the only way to make it legal.
The question a lot of people seem to be asking is why the Pistons would give up anything. Simple. It's for the certainty of getting Ayton. As long as the Suns hold true on their intention to match any offer sheet, the Pistons would have to play ball if they really want Ayton.
Also, imagine had Ayton signed an extension with us last season and had the year he had. If Detroit offered us Stewart, Murray and Bey for Ayton, it's possible that wouldn't be the best trade we could get on the open market. That can help them rationalize giving us assets.
