The NBA just got a Hollywood-worthy plot twist! Deandre Ayton, once the number one draft pick, has switched teams and signed with the Los Angeles Lakers, sending shockwaves through the basketball world. While the Denver Nuggets are slowly building their championship squad around Nikola Jokić, the Lakers responded with a brutal move — bringing in a monstrous center, Ayton, who is set to be a key player in their title chase.
Ayton, previously with Portland, signed a two-year deal with the Lakers, including an option for a third year. His salary? Around $16 million per season, while Portland will have to pay an additional $25 million due to contract termination. That’s a huge financial bite, but the Lakers are clearly ready to pay the price to get back on top.
But it’s not all smooth sailing — Ayton has a reputation as a problematic player off the court. Portland cut ties with him early due to bad habits, including being late to practices and flights. Still, on the court, he’s impressive: last season, in 40 games, he averaged 14 points and 10 rebounds. Now, he’ll face off directly against Nikola Jokić, promising a basketball spectacle.
Interestingly, the top three picks from Ayton’s draft year — Ayton, Marvin Bagley, and Luka Dončić — are all in the NBA now, and Ayton might be the most controversial of the bunch. The Lakers clearly decided to take a risk and bring him in as a key player for the upcoming season.
This transfer saga raises many questions: Will Ayton prove himself and justify the Lakers’ trust? Will his off-court issues affect the team? And most importantly, can this move stop the Denver Nuggets and Nikola Jokić’s dominance? The NBA season promises to be fiery, and we can’t wait to see how this drama unfolds.
Got thoughts on Ayton’s move to the Lakers or think the Lakers will rise again? Drop a comment below — let the debate begin!
