I am impressed in how far Caleb Martin's game has improved since his University of Nevada days in Reno. You always need a hustle guy on a Championship squad. He could fill that role nicely.
The podcasts I have been listening to put the Nurkic for Ayton trade this way, either Ayton has been a major distraction behind the scenes, OR they don't want to trust their Championship run on a guy who doesn't always bring it. With Nurkic the Suns know he's not HALF as talented as Ayton, but it is the fit. When Nurkic is playing, his motor is high. You can depend on his effort. It is more consistent than Ayton's. When Ayton brings it, he blows Nurkic out of the water. It's just can you depend on it?
Gambo, and a couple other local sports guys that are around the Suns say it's not really the $30+ million salary. It's the history of Ayton's inconsistency. Ishbia ia willing to pay the salary. Sounds like they just aren't sure on what he will bring, and if he can sustain that effort all season long.
Me, just from a talent standpoint and who is available, I want to roll with Ayton. One of the under rated parts of Ayton's game is he is one of the best screen setters in the league. He really does have excellent form on his screens, imho. That could work with the other four guys on the court. His shot blocking and rim protection has seemingly slipped from his rookie rookie year to now. That and solid rebounding effort is where I worry about him.
However, looking around the league at Centers available, and Ayton is better than what we may be able to trade for. Plus I see he has lately been rolling with Book and KD in off season training. Is he turning the corner on preparation and bonding with teammates?