LA Laker starting center Deandre Ayton will accept his $8.1 million player option for 2026–27, foregoing unrestricted free agency.
Ayton had until Monday to make a decision on the option he had in his contract as part of the two-year, $16.2 million deal he signed with the Lakers last year.
His decision was one of the biggest X-factors of the Lakers’ offseason considering the team’s desire to find a new starting center and Ayton’s impact on their cap space.
Ayton, the 2018 No. 1 draft pick who’ll turn 28 in July, averaged 12.5 points and 8 rebounds in a career-high 72 regular games.
He was instrumental to the Lakers’ first round playoff victory against the Rockets, averaging 11.8 points (60.4% shooting) and 10.8 rebounds in the six-game series.
But Ayton was also a polarizing player because of his inconsistent motor and his play style not fitting the archetype the Lakers need.
Sign up for the California Morning Report newsletter
California’s top news, sports and entertainment delivered to your inbox every day.
Thanks for signing up!
Download The California Post App, follow us on social, and subscribe to our newsletters
California Post News: Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, YouTube, WhatsApp, LinkedIn
California Post Sports Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, X
California Post Opinion
California Post Newsletters: Sign up here!
California Post App: Download here!
Home delivery: Sign up here!
Page Six Hollywood: Sign up here!
