Deandre Ayton joins Lakers after Blazers buyout. Center Deandre Ayton has agreed to join the Los Angeles Lakers as a free agent after a contract buyout from the Portland Trail Blazers.

According to multiple sources, Ayton will sign a short-term deal with a player option for the 2026-27 season. He’ll still earn over $25 million from Portland while playing for the Lakers next year.

The 2018 NBA Draft, selected two spots ahead of Luka Dončić, now links up with both Dončić and LeBron James in Los Angeles. His signing gives the Lakers much-needed size and a strong presence inside the paint—something they lacked after trading Anthony Davis to Dallas.

Though not a defensive standout, the 7-footer offers a reliable lob target and interior scoring option.

Ayton, who turns 27 this month, played his first five seasons with the Suns before joining the Blazers in the 2023 three-team trade that sent Damian Lillard to Milwaukee.