Deandre Ayton signs with Lakers on a two-year deal, joining LeBron James and Luka Doncic in a major roster move for the Los Angeles Lakers announced on Wednesday. The Lakers, seeking greater depth at the center position for the upcoming 2025-26 NBA season, secured Ayton as an unrestricted free agent following his release from the Portland Trail Blazers.
Lakers Secure Ayton to Bolster Championship Chances
ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that Ayton will earn $34 million in the 2025-26 season, with a player option available for the second year of his contract. The deal arrives after the Lakers prioritized strengthening their frontcourt amid concerns tied to LeBron James and reshaping the team’s championship ambitions. Ayton, a 26-year-old center, parted ways with Portland just days earlier after a contract buyout was reached. His decision to join Los Angeles reflects both his value in the league and the Lakers’ urgent need for an experienced big man.
Ayton’s NBA Career and Recent Performance
Originally taken as the number one pick in the 2018 NBA Draft — one spot ahead of Luka Doncic, now his teammate — Ayton has contributed in the league for seven seasons. Over two years with the Portland Trail Blazers, and five previous campaigns with the Phoenix Suns, Ayton established himself as a reliable presence. During the 2024-25 campaign, he posted averages of 14.4 points, 10.2 rebounds, 1.6 assists, one block, and 0.8 steals per game across 40 starts, showcasing his ability to impact both ends of the floor.
Forming a New Core in Los Angeles
The arrival of Ayton adds a veteran center to a Lakers lineup already packed with talent, especially following the recent blockbuster trade that brought Slovenian combo guard Luka Doncic to LA from the Dallas Mavericks. Doncic, aged 26 and a native of Ljubljana, has reportedly expressed enthusiasm about teaming up with Ayton, responding positively to the upgraded roster. According to coverage by Dan Woike and David Aldridge of The Athletic, the pairing is expected to reshape the Lakers’ dynamics and strengthen their quest for another NBA title.
Ayton’s International Career and Heritage
In addition to his NBA achievements, Ayton has represented the Bahamas in multiple FIBA international tournaments, building on a strong family legacy with roots in Nigeria and Jamaica. He played for the Bahamian national squad during the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament 2024 in Spain, as well as the Pre-Olympic Qualifying Tournament 2023 in Argentina, following his earlier debut at the Centrobasket Championship 2016.
What the Signing Means for the Lakers
This signing places Deandre Ayton alongside high-profile Lakers teammates and reflects the franchise‘s determination to pursue another championship run. With NBA veterans like LeBron James, rising stars like Luka Doncic, and Ayton anchoring the paint, expectations for the upcoming season in Los Angeles are set to rise. How this trio performs together will be closely observed as the 2025-26 season approaches, with fans and analysts watching to see if the new core can deliver the ultimate prize.