EL SEGUNDO, Calif. (AP) — Center Deandre Ayton has agreed to join the Los Angeles Lakers as a free agent, according to two people familiar with the deal. They spoke on the condition of anonymity because the move hasn’t been officially announced yet. Ayton was the first overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft, selected ahead of Luka Doncic.
The Portland Trail Blazers recently bought out Ayton’s contract, and now he’s agreed to play for the Lakers this coming season. His deal includes a player option for the 2026–27 season. Even though he’ll be wearing a Lakers jersey, the Blazers will still pay him over $25 million next season.
Ayton’s signing helps fix one of the Lakers’ biggest problems this offseason — they needed a big man who can finish plays near the rim, especially for stars like LeBron James and Luka Doncic. While Ayton isn’t known for strong defense, his 7-foot height gives the Lakers size in the paint, something they’ve lacked since trading Anthony Davis to Dallas in exchange for Doncic.
Ayton turns 27 this month. He played his first five NBA seasons with the Phoenix Suns, then moved to Portland two years ago in a big trade that also sent Damian Lillard to Milwaukee. His time in Portland was tough, partly because the team wasn’t very good, and he missed a lot of games last season due to a calf injury. He only played in 40 games before being ruled out for the rest of the year in February.
Despite ups and downs, Ayton has solid career stats: 16.4 points and 10.5 rebounds per game while shooting 59% from the field. He hasn’t made an All-Star team, but he’s one of the few players since Dwight Howard to average a double-double in his first seven NBA seasons.
Ayton is also familiar with Southern California. He moved from the Bahamas to San Diego for high school, then played college basketball at the University of Arizona before being drafted by the Suns.
The Lakers had trouble last season after trading away Anthony Davis. Backup center Jaxson Hayes didn’t play well and was benched in the playoffs by head coach JJ Redick. The Lakers were knocked out in the first round by Minnesota in five games. In the final game, Timberwolves center Rudy Gobert dominated, scoring 27 points and grabbing 24 rebounds while the Lakers had no true center on the court.
FAQ
What does the report say about Deandre Ayton joining the Lakers?
According to the report, Deandre Ayton is expected to sign with the Los Angeles Lakers after completing a contract buyout with the Portland Trail Blazers.
What is a buyout in the NBA?
A buyout is when a player and a team agree to end the player’s contract early, usually with the player giving up part of his salary. This allows the player to become a free agent and sign with another team.
Why are the Blazers buying out Ayton’s contract?
The exact reason isn’t confirmed, but it’s likely due to roster rebuilding, salary cap space, or mutual interest between Ayton and the team to part ways.
Has Ayton officially joined the Lakers?
No, as of now it’s not official. Reports say it’s “likely,” meaning there’s strong interest from both sides, but no official deal has been signed yet.
What role would Ayton play on the Lakers?
If he joins, Ayton is expected to add size, rebounding, and interior scoring. He could either start or play a major role off the bench, depending on the team’s rotation.