The Indiana Pacers have reportedly agreed to a 4-year, $133 million offer sheet with long-time Phoenix Suns star Deandre Ayton, who is now a restricted free agent.
Phoenix’s front office will have 48 hours to match the offer sheet, which they are expected to, even if such a move would push them deep into the luxury tax. However, if they don’t believe Ayton is a max-contract player, they risk losing him for nothing.
Meanwhile, if the Suns do let Ayton walk, the Pacers will pay out the largest deal in the history of NBA’s restricted free agency — and the largest average annual value contract in team franchise history.
With that in mind, here is what you need to know about the deal.