In a notable move that caught many by surprise, the Los Angeles Lakers have reportedly added size and potential to their roster by signing former No. 1 overall draft pick Deandre Ayton. The center became a free agent over the weekend following a buyout agreement with the Portland Trail Blazers.
Sources indicate that Ayton is set to sign a two-year contract with the Lakers, valued at $16.6 million. This acquisition is seen as a direct response to the Lakers` evident need for a dominant physical presence in the paint, capable of impacting the game on both offense and defense.
Ayton`s journey to Los Angeles via a buyout is an interesting twist in a career that began with sky-high expectations. Drafted first overall in 2017 by the Phoenix Suns, he later moved to Portland as part of the trade package for Damian Lillard. His time with the Trail Blazers proved to be short-lived, culminating in this recent separation.
Approaching his 27th birthday, Ayton arrives in Los Angeles with a mix of proven talent and lingering questions. Last season in Portland saw him play in just 40 games, putting up respectable averages of 14.4 points and 10.2 rebounds. However, these numbers don`t always tell the full story for a player whose career has been characterized by flashes of elite play interspersed with periods where his consistency and dedication, particularly regarding off-court preparation, have been points of discussion.
For Ayton, joining a high-profile team like the Lakers, and potentially playing alongside a legend like LeBron James, could be the catalyst needed to fully realize his considerable potential. It`s an opportunity to establish himself as a cornerstone player. For the Lakers front office, led by Rob Pelinka, the hope is that Ayton provides the much-needed interior foundation. Whether this signing is the key to curing any rumored discontent within the team, perhaps even addressing the `stomach ache` that some suggested was affecting LeBron James following recent contract developments, remains to be seen. It`s clear Pelinka still has strategic work ahead.
Around the Association: Other Notable Market Activity
While the Lakers` move headlines the market, other teams have also been making significant roster and leadership decisions.
The Charlotte Hornets have been active, reportedly agreeing to a three-year, $24 million contract to retain free agent guard Tre Mann. They`ve also added veteran guard Spencer Dinwiddie on a one-year deal, previously with the Mavericks.
In Dallas, Dante Exum is expected to stay put, serving as a crucial backup point guard, especially while Kyrie Irving recovers from injury. He`ll support new addition D`Angelo Russell in the backcourt rotations.
Meanwhile, the New York Knicks have reportedly settled on their next head coach, tapping Mike Brown for the role. Brown, a two-time Coach of the Year most recently dismissed by the Sacramento Kings in December, takes on the challenging task of following Tom Thibodeau. Thibodeau, despite facing criticism at times, did lead the Knicks to their most successful season in a quarter-century. Brown brings a career coaching record of 454 wins and 304 losses to the demanding spotlight of New York.
These various moves underscore the relentless nature of NBA team building and the continuous efforts by franchises to position themselves for success in the upcoming season.
