Los Angeles Lakers center Deandre Ayton opted into his $8.1 million player option for the 2026-27 season on Monday, June 29, 2026, guaranteeing his tenure with the franchise amid an offseason roster restructuring.
The decision, first reported by ESPN's Shams Charania, locks the former No. 1 overall draft pick into the second year of the two-year, $16.2 million contract he signed last summer.
>>> Warriors Explore Cap Strategies to Land LeBron James and Anthony Davis
Ayton previously forfeited $10 million of a $35.6 million contract to secure a buyout from the Portland Trail Blazers, allowing him to join Los Angeles in search of a permanent starting role.
During his first regular season with the Lakers, the 27-year-old big man registered 72 appearances, averaging 12.5 points on a career-high 67.1% shooting alongside 8.0 rebounds and 1.0 block per game.
His minutes occasionally decreased under head coach J. J.
Redick, who turned to backup centers Jaxson Hayes or Maxi Kleber during late-game situations.
>>> Former NFL Star Chris Johnson Reveals ALS Diagnosis at Age 40
Despite fluctuating playtime, Ayton adjusted his perspective mid-season to help the team navigate their postseason campaign, which included a first-round victory over the Houston Rockets before a second-round elimination by the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Ayton contributed 11.8 points and 10.8 rebounds per game during the opening round while defending Alperen Sengun, but his production fell to 7.3 points on 45.2% shooting during the second-round sweep.
He finished the postseason with the highest defensive rating of any Lakers starter outside of Austin Reaves, who recently secured a four-year, $184.8 million deal.
ESPN's Dave McMenamin noted that if Ayton opts in, the Lakers front office may seek a trade partner for the center.
>>> India Strengthens Seychelles Defense Cooperation to Build Maritime Opportunities
As reported by Silver Screen and Roll, the Lakers are prioritizing the acquisition of a top starter at center, which could prompt General Manager Rob Pelinka to look for a trade for Ayton's expiring $8.1 million contract before or during the upcoming season.
