Emeka Okafor's contract is key trade asset for Suns

The Phoenix Suns hold one of the league's most valuable assets for deal partners wanting to save themselves several millions of dollars: the expiring contract of injured center Emeka Okafor.

An insurance policy began to take over payment on 80 percent of the remaining $14.4 million on his contract once Phoenix reached the midway point of its season, league sources told Yahoo Sports.

Whoever deals for Okafor before the trade deadline will receive an insurance payout of $5.7 million – roughly $141,000 per game.

For the Suns, the appeal of Okafor's financially friendly deal has general manager Ryan McDonough on the search to fortify his roster for a playoff run.