Deandre Ayton was waived by the Portland Trail Blazers on Monday, marking a major development in the ongoing NBA free agency period. Following his release, speculation has grown around the possibility of Ayton joining the Los Angeles Lakers, reigniting interest in the former No. 1 overall draft pick. This potential move comes as the Lakers search for a star center to strengthen their roster.
A video from 2022 featuring Lakers coach JJ Redick resurfaced after news of Ayton’s waiver. In the clip, Redick praised Ayton during a panel with Patrick Beverly and Stephen A. Smith, focusing on Ayton’s role in the pivotal Game 7 of the Western Conference semifinals between the Phoenix Suns and Dallas Mavericks.
Insights from the 2022 Lakers Panel on Ayton’s Potential
During the panel discussion, differing opinions emerged about Ayton’s performance. While Patrick Beverly and Stephen A. Smith appeared skeptical of his impact, JJ Redick strongly defended Ayton’s abilities. Redick highlighted the center’s effectiveness in pick-and-roll plays alongside point guard Chris Paul, emphasizing their status as one of the most productive offensive duos in the league.
“Ayton’s fantastic. He’s fantastic at punishing mismatches in the two-man pick-and-roll with him and CP (Chris Paul). They’re the No. 1 offensive duo among high-volume pick-and-roll players, so he is fantastic.”
—JJ Redick, Lakers Coach
Redick’s endorsement underscores the Lakers’ interest in Ayton, especially after the departure of Anthony Davis to the Dallas Mavericks. The team hopes that Ayton’s return to the Western Conference and potential synergy with stars like LeBron James can help them contend for a championship again.
Reported Behavioral Issues Leading to Ayton’s Departure from Portland
Deandre Ayton’s release from Portland appears to be influenced by more than on-court performance. According to a report from The Athletic, Portland Trail Blazers coach Chauncey Billups had growing concerns over Ayton’s conduct off the court. The center reportedly exhibited unprofessional behavior such as being late to practices and team flights, missing rehab sessions, and reacting poorly after being benched.
These incidents reportedly culminated in conflicts within the locker room, contributing to the team‘s decision to waive Ayton. The Trail Blazers appear committed to rebuilding with a focus on younger, more dependable players rather than accommodating disciplinary challenges.
Significance of Ayton’s Next Move for Lakers and NBA Landscape
If the Lakers finalize a deal to acquire Deandre Ayton, it could address a critical gap left by Anthony Davis’s trade and bolster their frontcourt depth. Ayton’s potential reunion with Luka Doncic and familiarity playing in high-pressure games could help revitalize his career as he aims to regain his form. For Los Angeles, securing a center of Ayton’s caliber aligns with their ambition to construct a championship-contending team around LeBron James.
As NBA free agency continues to unfold, Ayton’s trajectory will remain one of the most closely watched stories, with implications not just for the Lakers but for the shifting balance of power in the league.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What happened to Deandre Ayton?
A. Deandre Ayton to play for Lakers on two-year contract
Sources told ESPN that free agent center Deandre Ayton has decided to join the Los Angeles Lakers on a two-year contract. The agreement includes a player option. Next season, Ayton will earn $34 million between Portland and Los Angeles.