The Los Angeles Lakers have made a significant splash in the 2025 NBA offseason, addressing one of their most pressing needs by securing a major addition to their frontcourt. On Wednesday, the franchise agreed to terms with center Deandre Ayton, a former No. 1 overall pick and proven interior presence, in what many are calling a smart and strategic move for a team looking to bounce back from a disappointing playoff exit.
Ayton, who spent last season with the Portland Trail Blazers, brings size, scoring, and rebounding to a Lakers roster that lacked a consistent interior force outside of Anthony Davis. The deal, reported to be a two-year agreement worth $16.6 million, is considered team-friendly — particularly given Ayton’s pedigree and production. Though his time in Portland didn’t generate the headlines many expected after his high-profile departure from Phoenix, Ayton quietly put up solid numbers and remained a reliable option in the paint.
One of the more memorable moments from last season involving Ayton came during a game against the Los Angeles Lakers, where he was fouled hard by then-rookie Dalton Knecht while battling for a rebound. The physical nature of that matchup now seems like a preview of what’s to come — only this time, Ayton will be wearing purple and gold.
For the Lakers, this signing couldn’t come at a better time. With Anthony Davis frequently tasked with shouldering the bulk of the interior defense and rebounding, Ayton’s arrival offers much-needed relief. The former Arizona Wildcat gives the team flexibility in its lineups, whether it’s allowing Davis to play more at the four or serving as a starter in small-ball matchups.
Ayton, still just 27, has the potential to thrive in a system where he isn’t the focal point of the offense. With playmakers like LeBron James and Luka Dončić orchestrating the attack, Ayton should benefit from easy looks around the rim, whether through pick-and-roll actions, putbacks, or quick post-ups. His soft hands and solid mid-range touch also make him a threat from multiple areas on the floor.
But perhaps even more valuable than Ayton’s skill set is what he represents: a renewed commitment from Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka to surround the team’s superstar duo with the right supporting cast. Last season, the Lakers ranked near the bottom of the league in bench production and lacked depth in the frontcourt. Ayton’s signing begins to fill that void and suggests that more roster moves may be on the horizon.
While critics have sometimes questioned Ayton’s motor or consistency, there’s no denying his talent. A change of scenery, a winning culture, and the motivation of competing for a championship may be the ingredients he needs to fully unlock his potential.
In Los Angeles, expectations are always high. And now, with Deandre Ayton on board, the Lakers have taken one more step toward building a team capable of making a deep playoff run in 2026.