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The Los Angeles Lakers are signing free-agent center Deandre Ayton, sources told ESPN’s Shams Charania.
The deal is reportedly for two years with a player option in 2026-27.
Ayton, 26, became a free agent after negotiating a contract buyout Sunday with the Portland Trail Blazers. He cleared waivers Wednesday at 5 p.m. ET.
The 7-footer and former No. 1 pick averaged a double-double of 14.2 points and 10.2 rebounds for the Trail Blazers last season. However, he appeared in just 40 games and didn’t play at all following the All-Star break due to a calf issue.
Portland reportedly grew frustrated with the center behind the scenes. The seven-year vet was late to flights and practices and skipped rehab sessions, sources told Jonathan Quick of The Athletic. He also reportedly acted out in locker rooms when disciplined for a lack of in-game effort.
Despite his supposed behavioral issues, Ayton is lined up to become the Lakers’ starting center, a position the front office prioritized upgrading at the onset of the offseason.
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