Los Angeles Lakers Sign Deandre Ayton, Pair With Luka Doncic

The Los Angeles Lakers have signed free agent center Deandre Ayton to a two-year, $16.6 million contract, aiming to address their long-standing need for a strong frontcourt presence. Ayton, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft, was bought out by the Portland Trail Blazers and will now play alongside Lakers star Luka Doncic, who is reportedly excited about the partnership. Both players share the same agent, Bill Duffy, and Doncic looks forward to utilizing Ayton as a dynamic lob threat in pick-and-roll situations. Despite some concerns about Ayton's consistency and attitude, analysts view him as the best available center option at a reasonable price, with his prior playoff experience and solid production being promising for the Lakers’ ambitions. The Lakers had also considered veteran Brook Lopez but ultimately chose the younger, more athletic Ayton to complement Doncic’s style of play. This move signals the Lakers' intent to build around Doncic while LeBron James remains with the team amid ongoing speculation about his future.