The Indiana Pacers have emerged as a potential suitor for free agent center Deandre Ayton following his recent buyout with the Portland Trail Blazers, according to Jake Fischer of The People’s Insider.
Sources indicate that Indiana has expressed interest in bringing Ayton aboard, particularly in the wake of Myles Turner’s departure to the Milwaukee Bucks earlier this week.
This isn’t the first time the Pacers have pursued Ayton. Back in July 2022, Indiana signed him to a four-year, $133 million offer sheet while he was a restricted free agent with the Phoenix Suns, an offer that the Suns ultimately matched to retain him.
Now, with Ayton an unrestricted free agent and Indiana in need of a starting-caliber center, the Pacers may once again attempt to land the former No. 1 overall pick.
Despite Indiana’s interest, league sources still view the Los Angeles Lakers as the frontrunner to sign Ayton. L.A. has been linked to the center since news of his buyout surfaced, and Ayton reportedly views the Lakers as a strong landing spot.
As the market develops, the Pacers could look to retool their frontcourt and make a more aggressive push for Ayton, especially if other options fall through.
Still, they face competition from contenders and must weigh their cap flexibility and long-term roster vision against Ayton’s potential role and price tag.
Pacers Interested In Deandre Ayton https://t.co/h0S1eRXFrj
— RealGM (@RealGM) July 2, 2025
