Deandre Ayton Signs Two-Year Deal with Los Angeles Lakers After Portland Buyout

Los Angeles, CA – July 2, 2025 – The Los Angeles Lakers have signed free agent center Deandre Ayton to a two-year contract worth $16.6 million, including a player option for the second season, following his buyout from the Portland Trail Blazers. Ayton, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft, will earn $8.1 million from the Lakers for the 2025-26 season, while also receiving $25.6 million from the Trail Blazers as part of his buyout, bringing his total compensation next season to approximately $33.7 million.

Ayton joins a Lakers roster featuring LeBron James and Luka Dončić, who was selected third overall in the same 2018 draft. The Lakers secured Ayton’s signature after interest from multiple teams, including the Indiana Pacers, who had previously offered him a maximum contract in 2022. The move addresses the Lakers’ pressing need for a starting center following the trade of Anthony Davis to Dallas for Dončić and the team’s struggles in the paint last season.

During his seven-year NBA career, Ayton has averaged 16.4 points and 10.5 rebounds per game, shooting 59% from the field. Last season with Portland, he posted averages of 14.4 points, 10.2 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and 1.0 blocks over 40 games, shooting 56.6%. The Lakers had previously explored options such as Brook Lopez and Clint Capela, but both signed elsewhere, making Ayton’s unexpected buyout a pivotal opportunity.

Ayton, who turns 27 later this month, is expected to start at center for Los Angeles and provide a rim-running, defensive presence alongside Dončić and James. The Lakers, eliminated in the first round of last season’s playoffs, hope Ayton’s arrival will strengthen their frontcourt and boost their championship aspirations.