Deal Accepted: Deandre Ayton Signs with the Los Angeles Lakers, Set to Earn $34 Million Next Season
In a significant and surprising move that’s shaking up the NBA landscape, Deandre Ayton, the former No. 1 overall draft pick, has agreed to a deal with the Los Angeles Lakers, sources tell ESPN. The agreement, finalized earlier today, will see Ayton earning a combined $34 million between his previous deal with the Portland Trail Blazers and his new arrangement with the Lakers for the 2025–26 season.
This blockbuster transition signals a major step in the Lakers’ offseason rebuilding plans as they aim to restructure their frontcourt and return to championship contention. Ayton, who spent last season with Portland after being traded from the Phoenix Suns, now joins one of the NBA’s most iconic franchises with the intention of making an immediate impact alongside stars like LeBron James (if he returns) and Anthony Davis.
A Strategic Fit for L.A.
The Lakers have long sought a dominant big man to complement Davis and offer a strong presence in the paint, especially during times when Davis is playing at the power forward position. Ayton, standing 6’11”, brings both size and athleticism, along with playoff experience and solid mid-range shooting. While his time in Portland was marked by inconsistency and questions about effort, his talent has never been in doubt.
Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka is betting that a change of environment — and the motivation of playing for a title-contending team — will unlock the best version of Ayton. Sources close to the Lakers’ front office describe this move as “calculated but high-upside,” particularly with Ayton only being 27 years old and still entering the prime of his career.
Portland Exit and Contract Breakdown
Ayton’s exit from Portland comes after just one full season, in which he averaged 16.7 points and 10.2 rebounds per game. While those numbers are respectable, they didn’t quite live up to the expectations placed on him after the Suns moved him in a multi-team deal last season. The Blazers, focused on youth and rebuilding, decided to part ways with Ayton and will reportedly cover a portion of his remaining salary, bringing his total income for next season to $34 million split between both franchises.
This setup was made possible through a negotiated contract buyout and cap-friendly maneuvering that allowed the Lakers to sign Ayton without gutting their depth or exceeding the luxury tax threshold.
What’s Next?
The Lakers now turn their attention to rounding out the rest of the roster, but with Ayton in place, they’ve made a strong statement of intent. His arrival is expected to be formally announced at an upcoming press conference later this week, with training camp just around the corner.
For Ayton, this is more than just a move — it’s a chance at redemption and championship relevance. For the Lakers, it could be the foundational shift they’ve needed since their 2020 title run. Either way, the NBA just got a lot more interesting.