ESPN reported on Wednesday that Deandre Ayton will be joining the Los Angeles Lakers, citing sources. Following negotiations between his agents, Nima Namakian of Innovate Sports and Bill Duffy of WME Sports, and Lakers president Rob Pelinka, the free agent center will make $34 million the next season. According to the source, the 26-year-old completed a buyout agreement with the Portland Trail Blazers on Sunday night.

According to ESPN, Ayton's choice is motivated by his wish to play in a winning scenario. He will be a member of the Lakers' starting five along with Luka Doncic and LeBron James. After a string of failed seasons, Ayton and Doncic, who were selected first and third in the 2018 draft, may be able to lead the club to the playoffs.

Predicted Los Angeles Lakers starting lineup

Luka Doncic, the point guard

Doncic, 26, who averages 28.2 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 7.8 assists a game, is the Lakers' offensive powerhouse. He was acquired in a blockbuster trade for Anthony Davis in February 2025.

Austin Reaves is the shooting guard.

Reaves, 27, had a career year, switching to off-ball shooting guard with Doncic at point and averaging 20.3 points and 41% from three.

LeBron James, Small Forward

Despite suffering a Grade 2 MCL sprain, James is still an outstanding player at the age of 40, averaging 24.5 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists in 2024–25 and making the All-NBA Second Team.

Despite rumors of a trade for a larger big guy, the 27-year-old Hachimura averages 13.6 points and strong defense, making him a versatile player.

At the middle: Deandre Ayton

To fill the Lakers' frontcourt gap following Davis, Ayton, 26, a former No. 1 selection, has career averages of 16.4 points, 10.5 rebounds, and midrange shooting.

Although the Lakers concluded the 2024–25 season with a 50–32 record, their lack of size was highlighted by their 1–4 playoff defeat to the Minnesota Timberwolves. The trade of Davis for Doncic resulted in an offensive powerhouse, but Jaxson Hayes remained the starting center, who was benched during the playoffs.

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