Deandre Ayton is close to finalizing a buyout deal with the Portland Trail Blazers that will make him a free agent, according to ESPN reporter Shams Charania. This development is poised to have a significant impact on the upcoming free agency period, as Ayton’s availability creates new opportunities for teams seeking a proven center.
Background on Ayton’s Tenure in Portland and Previous Trade
Ayton, who will turn 27 next month, joined the Trail Blazers in 2023 as part of a three-team trade that sent Damian Lillard to the Milwaukee Bucks. Over two seasons in Portland, he averaged 15.7 points and 10.6 rebounds per game, shooting 56.9% from the field. However, his participation was limited to 40 games last season and 55 games the year before, raising questions about his health and consistency. Originally, Ayton had been on a four-year, $133 million contract signed with the Phoenix Suns and was due to earn $35.6 million in the upcoming season.
Trail Blazers’ Roster Strategy and Emerging Young Talent
The Trail Blazers appear prepared to move forward without Ayton, given the depth of their frontcourt prospects. Portland boasts several young big men, including 2025 first-round pick Yang Hansen and 2024 first-round pick Donovan Clingan, who earned second-team All-Rookie honors last season despite sharing playing time with Ayton and others. This youth movement reduces the team’s reliance on Ayton and supports their decision to pursue a buyout.
Ayton’s Status and Value in the Free Agent Market
With the buyout near completion, Ayton will immediately become a highly attractive free agent. ESPN’s Bobby Marks explains that
“the waiver restriction for second apron teams only applies during the regular season,”
which means Ayton can sign with any team as soon as free agency begins. Although he has not fully met expectations as the No. 1 overall pick in 2018, Ayton has consistently averaged a double-double in each of his seven NBA seasons and shown flashes of high-level performance during his time with Phoenix and Portland.
Outlook on Ayton’s Career and Impact on Free Agency
While Ayton’s career has had its ups and downs, including a promising role during Phoenix’s 2020-21 NBA Finals run followed by a decline, his combination of age, talent, and productivity ensures he will draw significant interest from NBA teams. Portland’s decision to part ways underscores their confidence in their younger core, and Ayton’s entrance into free agency adds new energy and options for contenders and rebuilding squads alike as the market opens Monday night.