Fresh off a contract buyout with Portland, free-agent center Deandre Ayton has agreed to a two-year deal with the Los Angeles Lakers, which includes a player option for the second season, sources reported via Shams Charania and ESPN.

Ayton, the No. 1 overall pick in 2018, averaged 14.4 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 1.0 blocks over 40 games last season with Portland, shooting 56.6% from the field. Between his remaining Blazers salary and the Lakers' deal, Ayton will earn roughly $34 million for the upcoming season. He provides Los Angeles with a much-needed lob threat and inside presence to support the Luka Doncic-LeBron James tandem.

Lakers president Rob Pelinka and Ayton’s representatives, Nima Namakian and Bill Duffy, finalized the contract quickly once Ayton cleared waivers – the Lakers had been heavily linked to him amid interest from teams like Indiana and Milwaukee. Analysts noted L.A. used their full mid-level exception (~$16.6M total) to secure him, capping the roster near the second luxury-tax apron.

Despite his efficient play over seven NBA seasons – averaging 16.4 points and 10.5 rebounds – Ayton's tenure in Portland was marred by locker room concerns, including tardiness, missed flights, and occasional outbursts. The Blazers opted to part ways amid a crowded frontcourt and behavioral red flags.

ANALYSIS: Ayton replaces a glaring weakness at center and gives the Lakers an interior boost, enhancing rim protection and pick-and-roll depth. The contract maximizes available cap space, but will limit further moves due to luxury tax constraints. While Ayton adds size, some analysts question his intensity and consistency in LeBron-anchored rotations. But still, Ayton will be relied upon heavily as a starting center in the league. 

This move gives the Lakers the center they desperately needed, and may cap off their offseason priorities, but the true impact will hinge on Ayton’s fit, effort, and chemistry next to L.A.'s stars.