The Los Angeles Lakers have made their move—signing former No. 1 pick Deandre Ayton to a two-year deal with a player option, sources tell ESPN. Ayton brings the size, rebounding, and scoring touch that’s been missing from the Lakers frontcourt following the departure of Anthony Davis. He becomes the only player in NBA history to average over 15 points on 60%+ shooting in the playoffs—a testament to his efficiency when it matters most.
Ayton, 26, holds career averages of 16.4 points, 10.5 rebounds, and nearly 1 block per game while shooting 59% from the field. While he was up-and-down in Portland, the talent has never been in question. Now surrounded by LeBron James and Luka Dončić, Ayton should see a resurgence as a dependable third option and dominant pick-and-roll threat.
But L.A. might not be done.
League sources say the Lakers have expressed serious interest in Damian Lillard, who was recently waived and is recovering from an Achilles injury. With LeBron opting into his $52.6M deal and emphasizing a “realistic chance at a title,” adding Dame would be a last-dance swing for the rafters.
Without AD and with the bench now looking thin, the Lakers are betting big on star power. LeBron, Luka, Ayton—and maybe Lillard? That’s a firework show waiting to happen in the West.
If Lillard does land in LA, the 2025-26 Lakers could go from fringe contenders to instant Finals favorites. But depth, health, and defense remain real concerns in a top-heavy roster.
Still, if Ayton performs like his playoff self and Dame joins the mix, this could be one of the most dangerous—and dramatic—Lakers teams of the decade.