The Los Angeles Lakers have added a new piece to their evolving roster, securing center Deandre Ayton on a two-year, $16.6 million deal — and Luka Doncic is reportedly looking forward to it.
According to The Athletic’s David Aldridge and Dan Woike, Doncic is “excited about the opportunity to play with Ayton,” per league sources. Both players are represented by longtime agent Bill Duffy of WME Basketball.
Ayton finalized a buyout with the Portland Trail Blazers ahead of free agency, agreeing to give up $10 million of his guaranteed $35.6 million salary for 2025–26 to become an unrestricted free agent.
The Lakers moved quickly, locking in the 27-year-old big man with an $8.1 million starting salary for the 2025–26 season. The second year includes a player option.
Ayton averaged 14.4 points and 10.2 rebounds across 40 games last season in Portland. While he received praise for mentoring rookie Donovan Clingan, internal concerns about his consistency contributed to the Blazers’ willingness to part ways.
Los Angeles had prioritized a center upgrade this offseason to strengthen its frontcourt around Doncic, who led the team to a 50–32 record and a No. 3 seed in the Western Conference last season.
The addition of Ayton addresses one of the team’s most pressing needs — interior defense and rim protection. His ability to finish around the basket and rebound effectively could help ease Doncic’s offensive burden.
Before landing in L.A., Ayton drew interest from the Milwaukee Bucks, but they ultimately signed Myles Turner instead. The Lakers’ deal came at a significant discount compared to Ayton’s previous max-level contract signed with Phoenix in 2022.
Los Angeles has undergone a series of changes since acquiring Doncic via trade earlier this year. The front office is looking to reshape the roster for a deeper playoff push after last season’s first-round exit to Minnesota.
Ayton now has an opportunity to re-establish his reputation on a contender. If he performs at a high level, he could decline his option next summer and seek a more lucrative long-term deal in 2026.
