Lakers Sign Ayton, Eye More Moves Amid Uncertainty

The Los Angeles Lakers have signed center Deandre Ayton to a two-year, $16.6 million contract, with GM Rob Pelinka emphasizing Ayton's playoff experience and athleticism as vital for the team's championship goals. New head coach JJ Redick, who has previously praised Ayton, is expected to play a key role in maximizing his potential despite concerns about Ayton's consistency and their differing personalities. The Lakers are actively seeking additional roster upgrades, expressing interest in free agent guard Ryan Rollins and evaluating Amir Coffey and Isaiah Jackson to strengthen depth and defensive versatility. The team’s approach reflects a win-now mentality intended to support both LeBron James, whose future with the franchise is uncertain, and newly acquired star Luka Doncic. The Lakers' front office recognizes that more signings are necessary to address lingering defensive and bench concerns. Overall, the Lakers are striving to assemble a championship-caliber roster while managing internal challenges and external expectations.