The Lakers may not have to wonder what Deandre Ayton plans to do next.
According to Kurt Helin of NBC Sports (via Hoops Rumors), Ayton is expected to exercise his $8.1 million player option for the 2026-27 season, keeping him under contract with Los Angeles for at least another year.
The former No. 1 overall pick turned in an uneven first season with the Lakers. He appeared in a career-high 72 regular-season games and shot a personal-best 67.1 percent from the field, but also averaged career lows of 12.5 points, 8.0 rebounds and 27.2 minutes.
Ayton was at his best during the Lakers’ first-round playoff series against the Rockets, averaging 11.8 points and 10.8 rebounds while helping limit Alperen Sengun‘s impact. His production dipped in the second round, however, as Los Angeles was swept by the Thunder.
The 28-year-old has long been viewed as one of the league’s more intriguing talents. At his best, he’s an impact player on both ends of the floor. At other times, inconsistency has made it difficult to project his long-term value.
Even if Ayton picks up his option, it doesn’t necessarily mean he’ll spend next season in LA. His contract could still become part of a trade before the season or ahead of the February deadline.
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