Lakers sign Ayton

Transaction Breakdown: Lakers Sign Deandre Ayton

Los Angeles Lakers acquire: Deandre Ayton

The Los Angeles Lakers made a major splash by signing center Deandre Ayton, signaling a new era in their frontcourt following the departure of Anthony Davis. Ayton, a former No. 1 overall pick, brings size, mobility, and interior scoring to a Lakers team that is clearly looking to retool around a younger core while still staying competitive in the Western Conference.

Ayton averaged 16.7 points and 10.6 rebounds last season, and at just 26 years old, he still has plenty of untapped potential. His contract — worth roughly $34 million annually through 2026 — is a significant financial commitment, but it reflects the Lakers’ belief that Ayton can anchor their frontcourt and serve as a foundational piece moving forward.

Without Davis, the Lakers lacked a true interior presence on both ends of the floor. Ayton immediately addresses that need with his ability to protect the rim, rebound, and finish in the paint. While he’s not a floor spacer, his efficiency in pick-and-roll situations and ability to run the floor will be valuable assets in a system that is likely to emphasize pace and athleticism.

That said, Ayton’s consistency and motor have been question marks in the past. For this move to pay off, the Lakers will need to get full buy-in from him, both on and off the court. If he embraces the role of being a centerpiece and commits on the defensive end, this could be a pivotal signing that helps Los Angeles transition into a new competitive chapter.

Overall, Ayton gives the Lakers a proven young big man to build around, and if he finally takes the leap many have expected, this signing could be a franchise-altering move.