Deandre Ayton recently finalized a contract buyout with the Portland Trail Blazers, ending his two-season tenure with the team. Despite signing a new deal with the Los Angeles Lakers, Ayton will still receive $25.6 million from Portland this season as part of the buyout arrangement.
Performance and Impact During Portland Tenure
Over the past two seasons with the Trail Blazers, Ayton recorded averages of 14.4 points, 10.2 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and 1.0 blocks per game while shooting 56.6% from the field across 40 contests last season. Although he contributed solid numbers, Portland missed the <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/nba/”>NBA playoffs both years, finishing last season as the 12th seed in the Western Conference with a 36-46 record. The buyout reflects Portland’s decision to move on from Ayton amid the team’s continued struggles.
Lakers Sign Ayton on a Two-Year Deal Starting Next Season
Following his buyout, Ayton signed a two-year contract with the Lakers that begins with an $8.1 million salary for the 2025-26 NBA campaign. Despite joining a roster filled with talent, the Lakers are coming off a disappointing first-round playoff exit against the Minnesota Timberwolves, losing in five games. Ayton’s presence is expected to bolster their frontcourt as they aim to improve their postseason results.
Career Background and Future Outlook
Ayton was selected as the first overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft after a single season of college basketball at Arizona. Before his time in Portland, he spent five seasons with the Phoenix Suns, making an appearance in the 2021 NBA Finals. His experience and abilities could provide the Lakers with added depth and versatility moving forward.
Breaking: Deandre Ayton is finalizing a contract buyout with the Portland Trail Blazers to become a free agent, sources tell ESPN.—Shams Charania, ESPN
Deandre Ayton’s contract with the Lakers is for two years, per source, starting at $8.1 million for this 2025-26 campaign. He’s still due $25.6 million from Portland this season, following his buyout from the Trail Blazers.—Jake Fischer, The Stein Line