It’s not surprising that Deandre Ayton is opting into his $8.1 million player option for the 2026-27 season to stay with the Lakers.
His decision was pretty expected, given that this amount is a bit less than the $8.1 million he received from the Lakers last season. Of note, he had given up a substantial $10 million from his $35.6 million contract during a buyout with the Trail Blazers before joining the Lakers.
The Lakers are focusing on building a championship-caliber team around their standout guards, Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. So, no matter what Ayton decided, they still have options for roster improvement ahead.
Even with Ayton in the lineup, the Lakers have the potential to clear between $45 million to $52 million in cap space. This depends on how they handle the rights and cap holds for a number of free agents, including LeBron James, Rui Hachimura, and Marcus Smart.
They also have several roster spots available.
The significant need is still for a center that Doncic specifically wants to play with in Los Angeles.
While the summer market may not have many top-tier center options, that’s what Doncic is hoping for, especially since Reaves has re-signed for four years at $185 million.
The Lakers continue their pursuit of Walker Kessler, a restricted free agent from the Jazz who turned down a five-year, $140 million deal with Utah. Kessler has established himself as one of the best rim protectors since he joined the league and fits into the type of center Doncic has been looking for.
He offers qualities that Ayton lacks, such as effective rim running and shot-blocking, and maintains his involvement even when he isn’t heavily featured offensively.
At this point, it’s evident that Ayton, the top pick from the 2018 NBA Draft who will turn 28 soon, may not develop into the type of center needed.
His talent has shone through, with career-high averages of 12.5 points and 67.1 percent shooting, along with eight rebounds, during his time with the Lakers last season.
He showed his value in the Lakers’ first-round win over the Rockets.
While Ayton is undoubtedly a capable starting NBA center, he isn’t necessarily who the Lakers require.
This is why, when free agency kicks off Tuesday at 3 p.m., Kessler will be a primary target alongside Jalen Duren, another restricted free agent. The Lakers will also keep other options in play.
They’re considering unrestricted free agents like Mitchell Robinson from the Knicks and Robert Williams III from the Trail Blazers, as well as trade prospects like Daniel Gafford from the Mavericks.
With Ayton’s contract situation settled, the Lakers could potentially trade him, utilizing his $8.1 million salary to bolster another area of need, either at center or on the wing/forward front.
Doncic has clearly indicated his desire for a defensive-minded, rim-running center to complement his style.
The Lakers likely wouldn’t face too much difficulty starting the 2026-27 season with Ayton, but Doncic’s push for an upgrade is evident.
It’s a big reason why the Lakers are digging deep into their options to make this happen.
There’s significant pressure on the Lakers, particularly from general manager Rob Pelinka, to form a stronger lineup around Doncic, especially now.
While Ayton is solid, he’s not the ideal fit for their needs.
And so, his decision to opt into his contract won’t hinder the Lakers, or Doncic, from pursuing their goals.
