The Los Angeles Lakers have taken a significant step in the ongoing free agency period by agreeing to sign Deandre Ayton as their new starting center. This move comes amid LeBron James‘ subtle yet clear signals to the Lakers front office about strengthening the squad before the new <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/nba/”>NBA season begins. Ayton is expected to officially join the Lakers once he clears waivers, marking a crucial addition to the team’s lineup.
After being released by the Portland Trail Blazers, Ayton was linked to numerous teams, but the Lakers have emerged as the frontrunners to secure his services. Industry insiders report that this timing and fit offer Ayton a compelling opportunity in terms of contract value and playing time, aligning well with the Lakers’ needs.
Details of Ayton’s Contract and Negotiations
According to multiple sources, including industry insider Shams Charania, Ayton has agreed to a contract that will pay him $34 million for the upcoming season, combining earnings from both Portland and Los Angeles. The deal was facilitated by Ayton’s agents, Nima Namakian of Innovate Sports and Bill Duffy of WME Sports, in cooperation with Lakers president Rob Pelinka. This agreement represents a major contract acquisition for Los Angeles as they seek to bolster their starting lineup.
NBA insider Marc Stein highlighted the expectation that Ayton would commit to the Lakers shortly after clearing waivers at 5 PM ET, reinforcing the assumption held by many that Los Angeles is the clear destination for the former No. 1 draft pick.
Why the Lakers Are the Natural Fit for Ayton
Jake Fischer, an NBA reporter, pointed out that among the competing teams, the Lakers offer Ayton the best chance to regain financial ground after his recent $10 million buyout with Portland. Fischer emphasized that most other notable big men are already signed, making the Lakers’ starting center position a uniquely attractive role that fits Ayton’s career goals and salary requirements.
“Right now, it still does seem that Deandre Ayton’s best opportunity to get paid to make up the $10 million that he gave in a buyout back to Portland, which we reported last night, could be in Los Angeles where the Lakers are certainly weighing a run at him,”
Fischer stated during a July 1 Bleacher Report live stream.
He went on to say,
“I would be surprised if Ayton’s not the guy in L.A. I just don’t see a better earning opportunity for him where most of the big men are already off the board. The Lakers need a starting-level center.”
Possible Additional Moves to Strengthen the Lakers
The acquisition of Ayton may not be the final move the Lakers make this offseason. Sources suggest that the team is also exploring the possibility of acquiring veteran center Al Horford from the Boston Celtics, which would add further depth and experience to their frontcourt. This potential signing would indicate the Lakers’ commitment to providing LeBron James with significant support as they aim to compete strongly in the upcoming NBA season.
Overall, these strategic additions reflect the Lakers’ intent to reinforce their roster following the demands and tacit warnings from James, signaling an aggressive approach to free agency and roster building as they prepare for a challenging campaign.