In a major update to recent Lakers trade news, sources report that center Deandre Ayton is expected to sign with the Los Angeles Lakers following a contract buyout from the Portland Trail Blazers.
According to two individuals familiar with the agreement, Ayton will join LeBron James and Luka Doncic for the upcoming NBA season, with a player option extending through 2026-27. Though the deal is not yet official, the Blazers will reportedly pay Ayton over $25 million while he suits up for the Lakers.
This move marks a significant step in Lakers news trade activity, addressing the team's pressing need for size in the paint. Since the departure of Anthony Davis in the trade that brought Doncic to L.A., the Lakers have lacked a dominant inside presence — a gap Ayton now fills.
Despite some inconsistency during his stint with Portland, the 7-foot center brings proven numbers. Over seven NBA seasons, Ayton has averaged 16.4 points and 10.5 rebounds per game, shooting an impressive 59% from the field. Last season, he appeared in only 40 games due to a strained calf, but remains the only player since Dwight Howard to post a double-double average over his first seven seasons.
This addition could reshape the Lakers' frontcourt, especially after last year’s early playoff exit. In their first-round loss to Minnesota, the team struggled defensively, with Rudy Gobert dominating inside while L.A. lacked a true center. Coach JJ Redick even benched Jaxson Hayes in the final games due to poor performance.
Ayton’s arrival is more than a depth move — it’s a signal of the team’s intent to compete at the highest level. With his Southern California roots and chemistry potential alongside LeBron and Doncic, this could be one of the most impactful moves in current nba trade news lakers fans have been waiting for.
As more developments unfold, stay tuned for the latest lakers news, trade rumors and confirmations.
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