Deandre Ayton Reveals Real Reason Behind Lakers Decision
The Los Angeles Lakers enter the summer with a renewed frontcourt configuration, having added former No. 1 overall pick Deandre Ayton on a two‑year deal following his buyout from the Portland Trail Blazers.
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Ayton finalized his agreement with the Lakers on Sunday in a deal worth $16.6 million, featuring a player option for 2026‑27, per Spotrac.
His arrival comes on the heels of a disappointing 2024‑25 campaign in which the Lakers finished 50-32, secured the Pacific Division title, but were upset in the first round of the NBA playoffs by the Minnesota Timberwolves, 4-1.
Ayton's first statements as a Laker reflected both gratitude and ambition.
"I want to say first, thanks to the Portland Trail Blazers. Great organization as well. It wasn't tough making this decision, but just taking my time and embracing being a free agent… I felt that the Lakers were the best fit,' he said.
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He highlighted the chance to run with "the two best players in the league" and to "be a part of" Laker Nation, noting that he's "never seen" such passionate support and that he is fully aware "that winning means a lot here."
A consensus five‑star recruit at Arizona, Ayton won Pac‑12 Player of the Year, Freshman of the Year and the Karl Malone Award in 2018 before being selected No. 1 overall by the Phoenix Suns.
He earned NBA All‑Rookie First Team honors in 2019, averaging 16.3 points and 10.3 rebounds per game.
Ayton helped lead Phoenix to the NBA Finals in 2021, its first finals appearance since 1993, averaging 15.8 points, 11.8 rebounds and 1.1 blocks in 22 postseason games.
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Deandre Ayton signed a two-year deal with the Los Angeles Lakers.Soobum Im-Imagn Images
In Portland, he served as a veteran leader for two seasons before agreeing to a buyout on June 29 to pursue a "winning situation" in LA.
By targeting a position of need—and a proven veteran still in his prime, the Lakers organization appears committed to immediate contention, potentially influencing LeBron James' decision on his $52.6 million player option for the 2025‑26 season.
Related: Damian Lillard Receives Message From Bucks After Unexpected Release
Related: Rockets Release NBA Veteran Days After Kevin Durant Trade
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 8, 2025, where it first appeared.
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