LA Lakers finally found Doncic partner. Talented gold is likely to join DeAndre Ayton LAL
Jul 03, 2025
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CBS Sports in the U.S. is expected to sign DeAndre Ayton, who the Los Angeles Lakers are released as FA, according to an internal NBA source on the 3rd (Korea time). Two years, a total of $16.6 million, and year two includes player options' the Los Angeles Lakers have been keeping an eye on Ayton throughout the offseason. It was targeted at recruiting attractive centers. In fact, the possibility of recruiting him at a reasonable price has only recently emerged.
Ayton's annual salary this season is $25.5 million,814. At the end of this season, his contract with Portland was set to expire.
However, Portland and Ayton were bought out.
The media reported 'Atton could sign with the Los Angeles Lakers at a lower price. The Los Angeles Lakers have a significant portion of their tradeable salaries available elsewhere' and it seemed very few players could choose from the center market this season. A trade was attempted to acquire Utah Jazz Big Man Walker Kessler, but the two sides failed to reach an agreement. Theoretically, there were other FA players who could be recruited at a reasonable salary, but they all had weaknesses. Brooke Lopez was in decline at 37, and Luca Doncic's preferred move was lacking. There was Clint Capella, but it was unclear whether he could maintain his athletic ability. There was no player who could really fill the center gap left by Anthony Davis.
Ayton was named the No. 1 rookie draft pick in 2018. At that time, the third-ranked player was Luka Doncic, the ace of the Los Angeles Lakers.
He played as Phoenix's flagship center, but lacked combat power in offense and defense, and eventually moved to Portland. However, he also failed to impress in Portland. There were also injuries.
This article was translated by Naver AI translator.
