Deandre Ayton has been an expected trade candidate this offseason, but the decision by the Phoenix Suns to replace Monty Williams as head coach with Frank Vogel has improved the odds he remains with the franchise.

Ayton is beginning the second season of his four-year, $133 million deal.

"I think there's a better chance than people think," said Brian Windhorst of Ayton remaining with the Suns.

"I think the chances went up by a non-trivial amount with the hiring of Frank Vogel, who has a good track record with centers," replied Zach Lowe.

"I think part of the reason why Frank Vogel got the job is because when he came in he had an idea of what to do with Deandre Ayton," said Windhorst. "It does not mean it's going to work. They obviously, as an organization, have a complicated relationship there. They did not want to pay him the max. For the last year, he was in an adversarial relationship with his coach."

"I've heard Mat Ishbia has a fondness for Deandre Ayton. I'm not sure how true that is, but I've heard he likes his game," added Lowe.

"I know this, they will not start the season with the coach and the player not liking each other," said Windhorst alluding the acrimony between Ayton and Williamson. "Maybe they will get there by January 15th, but they are not there now."