Deandre Ayton and the Los Angeles Lakers have agreed to a two-year deal worth $16.6 million with a starting salary of $8.1 million. Ayton will have a player option for the 2026-27 season.

Ayton agreed to a buyout with the Portland Trail Blazers on the eve of free agency. Ayton gave back $10 million of his $35.6 million 2025-26 salary with the Blazers.

The Lakers have been searching for an upgrade at center, which Ayton will help fill. The Milwaukee Bucks had interest in signing Ayton before they pulled off their deal with Myles Turner.

Last season, Ayton averaged 14.4 points, 10.2 rebounds and 1.6 assists in 30.1 minutes across 40 games with the Blazers. 

The Lakers were not aggressive in re-signing Dorian Finney-Smith as they have pivoted to use the salary slot on Ayton and Jake LaRavia.