The Los Angeles Lakers have secured a starting-caliber center in Deandre Ayton after the Portland Trail Blazers surprised the basketball world by buying him out ahead of free agency. Ayton, once a No. 1 overall draft pick, now aims to leverage his Lakers career lessons as he pursues a championship and seeks to reinvigorate his professional journey.
Portland decided to part ways with Ayton despite his expiring $35 million contract, as they did not see him as a core piece of their future. With no trade offers coming in, the Blazers chose to buy out his contract, allowing Ayton the chance to find a team where he can contribute meaningfully. At 26 years old, he expressed during his introductory press gathering that professionalism and hard work have become central to his mindset moving forward.
“I feel like I’ve just been absent for a little bit in this league. And hard work, I’ve just been trying to put in as much work as I possibly can. When I’m on the floor, I want to really just show the world and prove to everybody that I am a winner. Any position I’m in, I just want to really win and sacrifice the way I did coming into this league.”
—Deandre Ayton, Center, Los Angeles Lakers
This season carries great importance for Ayton as he seeks to return to a $20-30 million earning range by demonstrating the professionalism and relentless effort that his raw offensive talents have long promised. His early years with the Phoenix Suns and then the Trail Blazers were marred by inconsistent effort and questions about his motor on both defense and offense. Joining forces with players like LeBron James and Luka Doncic presents an ideal motivational environment.
Ayton’s Aspiration to Build Chemistry with Luka Doncic
Several playoff teams showed interest in Ayton despite his challenges, all hoping that a new system might unlock his full potential at a reduced salary. However, the opportunity to partner with Luka Doncic on the Lakers stood out as especially appealing to him. The prospect of forming a strong pick-and-roll duo with Doncic could become a cornerstone for the Lakers as they transition into a new phase of their franchise.
Being the most naturally talented center in Los Angeles since Anthony Davis, Ayton is expected to provide the steady presence the Lakers need to compete at a high level this season. His success alongside Doncic and James could significantly alter the team’s trajectory and help the Lakers contend for another championship.
This upcoming chapter is more than just a fresh start; it represents a chance for Ayton to apply the lessons he has gathered over seven seasons, proving that he can be a true winner in the NBA.